It’s a frosty morning, and you’re preparing to drive your British luxury car. As you slip into the driver’s seat, you brace yourself for the initial shock of gripping the cold steering wheel. Now, imagine a scenario where the steering wheel is warm, welcoming, and comfortable from the moment you touch it. That’s the beauty and the luxury of a heated steering wheel. Retrofitting a heated steering wheel in your car is not just a luxury, but a comfort-enhancing feature too. Let’s dive into how you can do this.
Understanding the Mechanics of a Heated Steering Wheel
Before we delve into the nuts and bolts of retrofitting a heated steering wheel, it’s essential to understand the basic mechanics behind it.
In essence, a heated steering wheel works on the principle of electrical heating. The steering wheel has a series of heated elements – thin, electrical wires that run through the rim of the wheel. These elements are linked to a control module. When you switch on the heated steering wheel feature, power from your car’s battery is directed to the control module, which in turn, heats up the elements. This heat gets transferred to the steering wheel surface, providing a warm and comfortable grip.
Most heated steering wheels have a built-in thermostat that regulates the heat. The thermostat ensures that the steering wheel doesn’t become too hot, causing discomfort or even burns.
Choosing the Right Retrofit Kit
Your British luxury car deserves the best, and when it comes to retrofitting a heated steering wheel, it’s crucial to select the right kit.
Many kits are available on the market, so it’s best to choose one that suits your specific make and model. A well-designed kit will include all necessary components, including the heated steering wheel, the control module, wiring, and switches.
When choosing a retrofit kit, look for a steering wheel that matches your car’s interior. If your vehicle has a leather interior, consider a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel. Leather not only gives a rich, luxurious feel, but it also conducts heat well, providing a warm touch.
Retrofitting the Heated Steering Wheel
Retrofitting a heated steering wheel involves several steps, and while it’s not an overly complex process, it does require some mechanical and electrical knowledge.
The first step in the process is to disconnect the car’s battery. This is an essential safety measure to prevent any accidental electrical shorts or shocks.
Next, you’ll need to remove the existing steering wheel. This usually involves loosening the hub bolt in the centre of the steering wheel. Once the bolt is loose, the steering wheel should slide off the steering column.
In most cases, you’ll need to transfer some parts from the original steering wheel to the new heated steering wheel – this could include the airbag module and any control buttons.
The new heated steering wheel then gets installed onto the steering column, and the hub bolt gets re-tightened. The heating elements in the steering wheel need to be connected to the control module and the car’s electrical system.
Finally, the battery gets reconnected, and your new heated steering wheel is ready for use.
Safety Precautions
Safety should be your utmost priority when retrofitting a heated steering wheel.
First, you should always disconnect the battery before starting any work, as this reduces the risk of electrical shocks.
Additionally, when handling the airbag module, take extreme care. Airbags can deploy unexpectedly if mishandled, causing injury.
Lastly, make sure to test the heated steering wheel thoroughly after installation. Check that the heating function works correctly and that the wheel doesn’t become too hot.
Maintaining Your Heated Steering Wheel
Once you’ve retrofitted your heated steering wheel, it’s essential to maintain it properly.
Remember, the heating elements in the steering wheel are electrical, and like all electrical systems, they can develop faults over time. Regularly check the functioning of your heated steering wheel, especially before the start of winter.
If you notice any issues, such as the steering wheel not heating up or becoming too hot, it’s best to seek professional help. Tampering with the heating system without proper knowledge can lead to damage or even a fire risk.
Remember, a well-maintained heated steering wheel can provide you with many years of comfort and luxury, making every winter drive a cozy, warm experience.
The Cost of Retrofitting a Heated Steering Wheel
It’s important to note that the cost of retrofitting a heated steering wheel will vary depending on several factors. These include the type and brand of the retrofit kit you choose and whether or not you decide to do the installation yourself or hire a professional.
For a quality retrofit kit, you can expect to pay anywhere from £200 to £500. This typically includes the heated steering wheel, control module, wiring, and switches. If you opt for a higher-end model, or one that matches the specific style and material of your luxury car’s interior, you might pay a little more.
Installation is where the cost can significantly vary. If you’re mechanically inclined and confident in your ability to handle the job, you can potentially save a considerable amount of money. However, if you’re not comfortable handling such a task, hiring a professional is the best way to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. The cost of professional installation can range from £200 to £400, depending on your location and the complexity of the job.
Despite the upfront cost, many car owners find the comfort and convenience of a heated steering wheel to be well worth the investment, especially during the colder months of the year.
In the end, retrofitting a heated steering wheel into your British luxury car can significantly enhance your comfort during those chilly mornings. While the process requires a bit of mechanical and electrical knowledge, the payoff is a luxurious and cozy drive, no matter how cold it gets outside.
The cost of retrofitting can vary, but many find the investment worthwhile for the added comfort and luxury it provides. Remember, safety should always be your priority during installation, and proper maintenance is vital to ensuring your heated steering wheel lasts for many years.
The next time winter rolls around, and the frost sets in, you’ll be more than ready. With your retrofitted heated steering wheel, you can sit back, relax and enjoy a warm, comfortable drive.
