How To Active BMW Heated Steering Wheel?

The BMW Heated Steering Wheel stands out as a cutting-edge feature, gaining popularity not only in luxury cars but also as a technical enhancement for lower-spec models. In this comprehensive exploration, Beats the Dealers delves into the diverse aspects of this innovative technology, shedding light on supported models and offering detailed instructions for optimal usage.

Table of Contents

What is a BMW Heated Steering Wheel

At its core, the BMW Heated Steering Wheel is a feature that incorporates an electric heater within the steering wheel itself. This ingenious design serves a dual purpose, primarily focusing on providing warmth to the driver’s hands during cold weather conditions. The result is a more comfortable driving experience, with the steering wheel maintaining a cozy temperature that significantly enhances the overall journey.

Comfort and Convenience

One notable advantage of the BMW Heated Steering Wheel is its ability to eliminate the need for gloves while driving in colder climates. This not only contributes to a more tactile and responsive feel while operating the steering wheel but also simplifies the driving experience. The warmth generated by the heated steering wheel adds a layer of comfort that goes beyond mere luxury, making it a practical and thoughtful addition to BMW vehicles.

Supported Models

The integration of the Heated Steering Wheel feature varies across different BMW car models. For those fortunate enough to have a newer BMW, activating the heated steering wheel is a straightforward process. Users can either engage the feature through the intuitive Control Display or configure the automatic climate control settings to ensure the steering wheel heating activates automatically when needed.

Non-Supported Models

However, for models that do not come equipped with this feature, the solution is not out of reach. Professional technicians can seamlessly install the BMW Heated Steering Wheel upon request. This opens up the possibility for owners of older or lower-spec BMWs to enjoy the benefits of this innovative technology, thereby enhancing their driving experience.

How does the BMW Heated Steering Wheel work?

The BMW Heated Steering Wheel operates through a sophisticated mechanism designed to enhance driving comfort, particularly in cold weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of how this innovative feature works:

Heating Element Integration

At the heart of the BMW Heated Steering Wheel is a specialized heating element strategically positioned beneath the surface of the steering wheel. This element is meticulously engineered to generate and distribute warmth evenly across the steering wheel’s surface, ensuring a consistent and comfortable temperature for the driver’s hands.

Electrical Supply

To activate the heating function, the BMW Heated Steering Wheel relies on a steady supply of electricity. When the feature is initiated, an electrical current is directed to the heating element, initiating the heating process. This ensures that the steering wheel begins to warm up efficiently, providing immediate relief from the cold for the driver.

Heat Transfer

As electricity courses through the heating element, it induces a transfer of heat to the surface of the steering wheel. This heat transfer mechanism is fundamental to the functionality of the Heated Steering Wheel, as it is responsible for elevating the temperature of the steering wheel to a comfortable level. By effectively warming the steering wheel, this feature enhances grip and control while driving in chilly conditions, contributing to a more enjoyable and secure driving experience.

Turn on/ active Heated Steering Wheel

Here’s a step-by-step guide to activating the Heated Steering Wheel function on the BMW X3:

Power On: Ensure the vehicle is in either accessory or ON mode.
Locate Button: Behind the left side of the steering wheel, you’ll find a small button shaped like a steering wheel. This button is dedicated to activating the steering wheel heating mode.
Activation: Press the steering wheel-shaped button to activate the heating function.
Adjust Temperature: Navigate to the climate control panel and press the “MENU” button. This action will display the “Air conditioning function” menu on the infotainment system screen.
Select Settings: Within the Climate Functions display, locate and select “Seat heating / Steering wheel heating,” then choose “Driver.”
Configure Settings: On the infotainment screen, select “Seat heating/Steering wheel heating” and then choose “Driver.” Tick the box labeled “Oh Heating steering wheel” to activate the function. Use the control knob to set the desired temperature.
Automatic Activation: Once you’ve set the desired temperature, the Heated Steering Wheel will automatically activate whenever the steering wheel reaches that temperature.

Following these steps will ensure that your BMW X3’s Heated Steering Wheel function is activated and customized to your preferred temperature settings, providing enhanced comfort during your drive.

Models with this function are available

Here’s a breakdown of BMW models with and without the available Heated Steering Wheel function:

Models with Available Steering Wheel Heating Functions:

X5M
X6M
X7 40i
X7 M60i
XB7
M5
740i
760i
i7
840i
M850i
M8
Z4 M40i
iX M60
XM

Models Where You Can Activate the Steering Wheel Heating Feature:

X1 28i
X3 30i
X3 M40i
X3M
X4 30i
X4 M40i
X4M
X5 40i
X5 45e
X5 M50i
X6 40i
X6 M50i
230i
M240i
228i
M235i
M2
330i
330e
M340i
M3
430i
M440i
M4
530i
540i
530e
M550i
Z4 30i
iX 50
i4 e35
i4 e40
i4 M50

For models where the function is not initially available, activating the Heated Steering Wheel feature can be achieved with professional assistance, ensuring enhanced comfort and convenience during cold weather driving.

Reasons why the BMW Heated Steering Wheel does not work

Here are some common reasons why the BMW Heated Steering Wheel may not function properly:

Damaged or Corroded Wiring: If the wire connecting the heating element to the electrical system becomes damaged or corroded, it can disrupt the flow of electricity needed to activate the heating function. Inspecting the connector and replacing the wire may be necessary to resolve this issue.
Faulty Fuse: A damaged fuse can directly impact the power supply to the steering wheel heating system. Using diagnostic software like ISTA D can help identify which fuse is faulty, allowing for replacement to restore proper functionality.
Defective Heating Element: If the heating element itself is defective, it will be unable to generate the necessary warmth for the steering wheel. Replacement with a new heating element of the same size and capacity is required. Additionally, coding and reprogramming software like ISTA P may be necessary to ensure the new element functions correctly within the system.

Addressing these potential issues with proper diagnosis and repair can help ensure that the BMW Heated Steering Wheel operates reliably, providing comfort and convenience during cold weather driving.

How To Active BMW Heated Steering Wheel?