Heated Steering Wheel

It is usually switched by a button on the wheel or in the climate menu and often switches off automatically after a while. Power passes from the steering column to the wheel through the clock spring. Some cars also use the heating element as a hands-on sensor for driver assistance systems.

Current through a thin resistance wire or mat under the leather warms the rim, while a sensor limits the temperature.

If heating stops working, the switch, fuse, clock spring or heating mat may be at fault. Replacing the heating mat often means replacing the steering wheel cover or the whole wheel.