A heated steering wheel is a luxury – but most cars, including the Tesla Model Y, have them nowadays.
They allow you to grip the steering wheel comfortably. This is especially useful on cold winter mornings and eliminates the need for driving gloves. Of course, you could still wear them if you choose.
This guide will explain how to turn the Tesla Model Y heated steering wheel on. Before operating this feature, read your owner’s manual to know what to expect from your individual specification.
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When was the Tesla heated steering wheel introduced on the Model Y?
All 2021 and later Tesla Model Y cars are built with heated steering wheel compatibility.
Initially, the heated steering wheel was an optional extra. Then, in January 2021, Tesla’s software update released it to all compatible Model Y and Model 3 vehicles (for free). It wasn’t announced or given attention in the press – people just gratefully noticed after the updates were completed.
Thus, this function should be available to most 2021 and all later Model Y vehicles. You may need a software update if you can’t find the button to activate it.
Unfortunately, it isn’t available on all Model Ys.
How to turn on the Tesla Model Y heated steering wheel
There are three ways to turn the Tesla Model Y heated steering wheel on.
- From the touchscreen
- Using a voice command
- From the Tesla app
Activate the heated steering wheel from inside your Tesla Model Y
You can activate the heated steering wheel through the touchscreen.
- Press the fan icon to bring up the climate control settings.
- Tap the heater icon to pull up the heaters tab.
- The heater icon is three wiggly vertical lines.
- You’ll see it in the bottom-left of the screen.
- Tap the red heated steering wheel icon.
This activates the heaters in the steering wheel.
It’s also possible to activate the heated steering wheel via voice commands. This is a straightforward process.
- Activate voice control using the scroll wheel.
- Say, “Turn on heated steering wheel.”
- Because Tesla is known for the obscure and verging on ridiculous, you could also say, “My hands are cold.“
The heated steering wheel will turn on. A voice command is safer and more efficient while driving.
Activate the Tesla heated steering wheel via the app
Finally, it’s possible to activate the Tesla heated steering wheel from the app as part of the cabin preconditioning.
- Open the Tesla app on your smartphone.
- Choose the Climate tab.
- Tap the heated steering wheel icon.
This will activate the heated steering wheel.
It’s a valuable part of preconditioning before you get into your Model Y, making driving it that tiny bit more pleasant.
How to turn off the Tesla heated steering wheel
Turn the heated steering wheel off by following the same instructions as above.
- This time, tap the heated steering wheel icon (whether on the touchscreen or app, depending on whether you’re driving) again to deactivate it.
- Alternatively, use a voice command. Say, “Turn off heated steering wheel.“
You should be able to feel the steering wheel cool down soon after. It won’t cool down instantly, of course.
Troubleshooting the Tesla Model Y heated steering wheel
If the heated steering wheel is facing issues, check you have the latest Tesla software. You might need a software update.
A few issues have also been reported when using the app to precondition the car. You might find that the entire HVAC system comes on when you activate the heated steering wheel.
Again, ensure you have the most up-to-date software (both in your car and for the app). If this doesn’t solve the issue, head to your local Tesla dealer.
You’ll find all the information you need about the Tesla heated steering wheel in your owner’s manual. A copy will have come with your car, and they’re also available for free online. It’s best to use your own since this may be specification-specific.
Check out a PDF of the Model Y owner’s manual below.
