Multifunction steering wheel, what is it and how to talk on the phone with it?

The development of the automotive industry does not stop, and among the available accessories that expand the equipment of a particular car, and especially among electronic devices, more and more new gadgets are appearing, often with complexly constructed and therefore mysterious names.
This time we will try to find out what is hidden under such a term as a multifunction steering wheel - multifunction steering wheel. Is it really something that can be unfastened from one car and transferred to another, without compromising ergonomics and, most importantly, functionality? It’s not for nothing that the derivative of the word “functional” appears as part of the mentioned term.

What is a multifunction steering wheel in a car?

This time we will try to find out what is hidden under such a term as a multifunction steering wheel - multifunction steering wheel. Is it really something that can be unfastened from one car and transferred to another, without compromising ergonomics and, most importantly, functionality? It’s not for nothing that the derivative of the word “functional” appears as part of the mentioned term.

Multifunctional steering wheel

It is quite possible that a person who does not particularly delve into automotive terminology, with such a massive phrase as “multifunctional steering wheel,” will have the image of a plump steering wheel, necessarily beautiful, and quite possibly dotted with many multi-colored buttons. By the way, such an image will not be far from the truth and here’s why.

At its core, a car's multi-steering wheel is, first of all, really just an ordinary steering wheel used to control a vehicle. But, performing the main and therefore basic function is good, but additional capabilities built into a standard control tool, when it is endowed with all sorts of additional capabilities, are essentially functions, this is something completely different.

The electronic content of a modern car is constantly being improved, a variety of media components are appearing, and the possibilities of internal settings are expanding: car suspension, air conditioning, and other systems that make the driver’s life easier.

In recent years, thanks to numerous system assistants, it is becoming more and more like not hard physical labor, as it was not so long ago, but like the high-tech work of a spaceship pilot.

Thus, the multi-steering wheel of a modern car turns out to be an extremely complex and advanced technological device that makes it possible to simplify the control of numerous automotive systems.

The multifunction steering wheel is almost like a TV remote control

What is multifunction steering wheel? Steering wheel - in addition to its main function, to control changes in the direction of movement of the car, the designers figured out to transfer to it a whole series of control buttons for different car systems.

For example, without taking his hands off the steering wheel, the driver can control the audio system, cruise control, navigator, on-board computer, telephone and even gear shifting.

The location of the buttons on the steering column can be different, it depends on the car manufacturers and can be different even within the same brand.

The most popular thing in modern cars is telephone control. You understand that the telephone is the most popular gadget today, and operating it without taking your attention off the road is also our safety.

A lot of cars equipped with an on-board computer are able to track indicators such as fuel consumption per 100 km. in different driving modes, how far in kilometers the fuel is left in the tank, daily mileage, and so on. Also on the steering wheel there can be buttons for controlling the heater, air conditioning and air circulation in the cabin.

Using the buttons on the steering wheel you can get this information, move up and down through the menu, open and close these options.

Of course, the multifunction steering wheel traditionally has a horn button, and an airbag is also built into it.

Multifunction steering wheel and car class

It is quite natural that the functionality of such a unit will directly depend on the class of the car itself. If we are talking about an inexpensive, budget model, then most likely the steering wheel will not be able to do much; at best, it will control the on-board audio system and then, most likely, only the function of turning it on/off. But adjusting the sound, timbre, selecting media type and other functions through the steering wheel will still be unavailable.

If we find ourselves in front of a middle-class car with a richer level of equipment, then the steering wheel becomes more functional. In addition to sound control, it controls, for example: adjusting the climate control system, administering the basic functions of the on-board computer, and cruise control.

Increasingly, mobile phone controls are being placed on the steering wheel, called “hand free”. With the advent of smartphones, many manufacturers are adapting the on-board multimedia system to interact specifically with these mobile devices built on the Android, iOS or Windows 8 operating systems.

And such solutions are not at all out of the ordinary, because mobile communications have become firmly established in the lives of each of us, and a significant number of applications installed on smartphones are also used to control a modern car; moreover, they are specially developed for this purpose.

The pinnacle of steering wheel functionality can be considered devices that allow the driver to interact with high efficiency with almost all systems of the most complex and technically advanced car.

In addition to all the previously mentioned functions, this steering wheel includes:

• Manual switching of automatic or robotic gearboxes;

• Control of transmission functions in an all-wheel drive vehicle.

The steering wheel is the main element of safe vehicle control.

When increasing the functionality of the steering wheel, we must not forget about its main purpose - driving a car. In this regard, the developers of multifunction steering wheels are subject to very stringent requirements for the ergonomics of the controls. The steering wheel still needs to remain comfortable and not in any way distract the owner of the car from driving it.

High-quality design of control elements should not interfere with fast and accurate steering, and their location should not cause problems with accidental activation of any of the systems. To prevent false alarms, high-quality materials and advanced technological solutions are introduced into the design of multifunction steering wheels.

Source: shokavto.ru

How does ASR work?

As mentioned above, ASR is a variant of ABS with enhanced functionality. Therefore, in addition to the sensors, modulators and control unit, which are the main components of the anti-lock braking system, it also includes:

Return pump;
Solenoid valves;
Signal generation module for engine control unit.

The return pump is used to create additional pressure in the brake system, and when it is turned on, it begins to function as the brake master cylinder. Solenoid valves are responsible for connecting this pump and, when the moment comes, releasing the excess pressure. As for the signal generation module for the engine control unit, its purpose is quite clear from the name itself. It is used in cases where ASR operates in the power unit torque reduction mode.

The design of modern traction control systems provides a function of informing about their operation: at this moment, a special light comes on in the car interior, on the dashboard. It should be noted that drivers have the opportunity to disable the ASR installed in their vehicles, however, experts do not recommend doing so, since this traction control system does provide increased safety and its use in cars has a number of important advantages.

What is a multifunction steering wheel and a servo steering wheel?

Multifunctional steering wheel

Multifunctional steering wheel is short for multifunctional steering wheel. It is a regular steering wheel, on the spokes of which there are additional buttons for controlling various functions in the car. Most often, the audio system and on-board computer control buttons are moved to the steering wheel. In more expensive cars, they may be supplemented by cruise control, Bluetooth, suspension adjustment, etc.

All this is done for the convenience of the driver and for safety. The buttons are located so that they are easy to press with your thumbs. True, if you remember the lessons in the driving school, as well as the angry scream of the driving instructor (this happened!) and hold the steering wheel correctly, then pressing the buttons will not be very convenient. After all, you still have to be distracted and look for the right key.

If you think that the buttons on the steering wheel are redundant, there are a lot of them and you can’t figure them all out, then I suggest you take a look at the steering wheel of a Formula 1 car.

Such “steering wheels” have about twenty different buttons, toggle switches and switches, and their cost can reach up to 50 thousand euros. But we digress.

Servo steering wheel

But here it’s more difficult. There is no official concept of what “servo steering” is. This is a slang expression, and if you ask such a question anywhere on automobile forums, the respondents will be divided into two camps. Some will foam at the mouth and argue that the servo steering wheel is the ability to adjust the steering column in height and reach. Others will splutter and convince you that this is a system that changes the force on the steering wheel depending on the speed of movement. So which option is right? What do modern car enthusiasts mean by the term “servo steering wheel”? The second is a system for changing the force on the steering wheel, which allows you to turn the steering wheel with one finger when parking, but adds “weight” to the steering wheel at speed.

Modern new cars all have steering wheel height adjustment, and reach adjustment is already found even in budget cars. Therefore, if someone previously called this function a servo steering wheel, now it is not relevant. Now you know what a multifunction steering wheel and a servo steering wheel are.

What is a multifunction steering wheel and a servo steering wheel in a car?

While reading any car specifications, or maybe just in a conversation, you might come across such concepts as multifunction steering wheel and servo steering wheel. These are quite simple concepts from the category of “elementary, but not clear, but it’s inconvenient to ask.” But let’s discard all formalities and take things apart.

Multifunctional steering wheel

It's actually just short for multifunction steering wheel. It is a regular steering wheel, on the spokes of which there are additional buttons for controlling various functions in the car. Most often, the audio system and on-board computer control buttons are moved to the steering wheel. In more expensive cars, they may be supplemented by cruise control, Bluetooth, suspension adjustment, etc.

Such “steering wheels” have about twenty different buttons, toggle switches and switches, and their cost can reach up to 50 thousand euros. But we digress.

Servo steering wheel

Rules for connecting the multifunction steering wheel

The automotive industry is in a constant process of development. Designers are constantly coming up with various kinds of improvements that aim to make driving as safe as possible and make driving more comfortable.

One of these improvements is the installation of a multifunction steering wheel. In this review we will answer the question of what a multifunction steering wheel is and whether it can be installed instead of a regular steering wheel.

Multifunctional steering wheel

The name multifunction steering wheel is an abbreviation for the generally accepted term - multifunctional steering wheel. What is hidden under this designation?

As mentioned earlier, all automobile designers strive to make driving a car very convenient. Since modern vehicles have many different gadgets and bells and whistles, which often require switching and adjustments during a trip, the driver has to be regularly distracted by them, which in turn can lead to emergency situations. It was this factor that was decisive for auto engineers in creating a multifunctional steering wheel. They tried to transfer some of the control elements to the steering wheel and save the driver from having to throw the steering wheel and switch all sorts of buttons and levers.

Multifunction steering wheel (multifunctional steering wheel) is a regular steering wheel on which various auxiliary elements for controlling the electrical equipment of the car are located. In modern cars this can be a very advanced technological device.

Multifunction steering wheel buttons

Almost all the buttons are located on top of the steering wheel, as if on its face, mainly adapted for pressing with the thumb, but this is not necessary, they can be pressed by any other finger, the main thing is that it does not distract you from the road situation.

There are cars in which the buttons are located on the back of the steering wheel, usually these are gear shift buttons (Tiptronic).

It so happens that the optimal number of buttons is twelve. Six on the left and right sides. The number of buttons, naturally, depends on the number of installed systems and the wishes of the manufacturer.

It has gotten to the point where they even install a scroll wheel on the steering wheel (a scroll wheel like on a mouse). A number of AUDI models have such a control element.

Manufacturers have become so dedicated to making such steering wheels that the reliability of operation of such control systems has no claims, even despite the many mechanical sliding contacts. Buttons and contacts work flawlessly for many years without attracting attention.

The multifunctional steering wheel greatly facilitates the driver's work, increases comfort and creates a feeling of maximum convenience for your car.
Tags steering

What could be on the steering wheel?

On our roads you can find vehicles of various classes; naturally, the electronic components of such cars will be significantly different. Multifunctional steering wheels will also differ depending on the class. So, for example, in an inexpensive car, at best the steering wheel will control the audio system, and even then only the function of turning it on or off. Sound adjustments and other settings will most likely have to be made as usual.

If the car is of a slightly higher class, then the steering wheel will most likely also have controls for adjusting the climate system, controlling the on-board computer and cruise control.

In even more advanced versions, you can find the ability to control a mobile phone from the steering wheel. This feature is called “hands free” or “hands free”. Today, many smartphones have the ability to access car audio systems, and by controlling the smartphone from the steering wheel, you can also control the multimedia system.

In addition to the listed functions, the multifunction steering wheel buttons can control:

Operation of manual and automatic transmissions.
Monitoring transmission functions in vehicles with all-wheel drive.
Adjusting the operating modes of the suspensions, which changes the ground clearance and their rigidity.

Multifunctional steering wheels in cars with very expensive equipment, most of the prestigious brands, usually have all these capabilities.

Multifunction steering wheel repair cost

To say that the multifunction steering wheel often fails is most likely not true. Most manufacturers make multifunction steering wheel buttons reliable, and, despite their structure, they have been in use for decades. Still, like any mechanism, at any moment certain buttons can simply stop working. There can be many reasons for the breakdown of the multifunction steering wheel, from a simple break in the cable to failure of the buttons themselves.

It is worth understanding that the more expensive the car and the more functional the steering wheel, the more expensive it will be to repair or completely replace the block of buttons on the steering wheel. To understand how much an average repair of a multifunction steering wheel will take from your wallet, let’s look at the example of several models, the cost of a block of buttons and other parts.

The cost of parts for a car multifunction steering wheel
Name	brand, model	Price from, rub.
Button block (left and right side)	Suzuki Grand Vitara 2006+	8400
Button block (left side)	Mercedes-Benz W211	2710
Button block (left or right side)	Mercedes-Benz W212	3388
Handlebar tape	Suzuki Grand Vitara 2006+	5372

Even from such a small list, it becomes clear that parts for the multifunction steering wheel are not cheap, but not so expensive either. Of course, the price largely depends on the model and configuration, but in order to disable the buttons, you need to try, although you can wipe them rather than break them.

Novice drivers are often afraid to use such functions of the multifunction steering wheel, thinking that they may break the control mechanism or program one of the car systems. As statistics show, over time, every driver at least uses mobile communications control and volume settings. If you have a choice whether to install multifunction steering (multi-steering wheel) in a new car at the time of purchase or not, the answer is unequivocally yes! Such a function will never be superfluous and will only bring additional comfort and safety in operation.

Video review of the car's multi-function steering wheel:

We connect the radio to the steering wheel

Almost all cars with a multifunction steering wheel have a standard radio installed. But a situation may arise that there is a desire to replace the music installation with a more advanced one. In this case, you need to be prepared for the fact that the buttons located on the steering wheel will not control the new system. Some work will need to be done to resolve this issue. Despite the apparent simplicity of the work ahead, connecting a non-standard radio may take several hours. The success and speed of work will depend on your skills in working with electronics, otherwise it is best to contact a specialist. If you nevertheless decide to test your strength and connect the radio to the multifunction steering wheel yourself, then following our instructions, you will achieve your goal.

What to cook

The right radio for you. The most popular among drivers are Pioneer or Sony players.
ISO adapter - this adapter is most often included with the equipment.
We buy another adapter of the same type.
An adapter for connecting an antenna also needs to be purchased.
An adapter that allows you to connect the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the radio.

Adapter selection

The adapter is necessary for correctly connecting an aftermarket radio to the multifunction steering wheel. Manufacturers offer a fairly diverse selection of these devices. These can be models that are suitable only for a specific car or universal ones that can be connected to almost any car.

Among the universal models, the most popular is the adapter with programming capabilities - under the ACV brand. These devices look like a small module with wires of different colors. These wires are routed out, which facilitates the process of connecting to the wires on the radio block. These adapters are suitable for all radios, regardless of brand, that have a remote control and the programming process will take place directly from the remote control. The ACV SWI-1 adapter allows you to retain all the functions of the buttons located on the steering wheel and even expands their capabilities, namely, it allows you to program two functions for the same button. This is achieved by short or long press.

Installation

First, we connect the radio following all instructions. We connect the antenna and check the correct operation of the device.
We connect the wires of the steering wheel block and the adapter wires, adhering to the following diagram.
The white wire on the adapter must be disconnected from ground.
Line 1 (blue wire) – STRG SWA.
Line 2 (green wire) – STRG SWB.
GROUND (black wire) – STRG GND, to minus (vehicle body).

After connecting all the wires, the actual programming process begins.

The adapter is supplied with +12V power - one of the LEDs should blink.
We connect the white wire to MASS, and the device enters the learning process.
On the multifunction steering wheel we find the volume control button, press and hold it until the LED lights up.
On the remote control, press the sound boost button and point the remote control at the adapter - the LED on the case should go out at this time.
If you need to place a second command on the same button on the steering wheel, then you need to press and hold it until both LEDs light up.
On the remote control, hold down the button until the LEDs go out.
We program all other buttons using the same principle.
We disconnect the white wire on the adapter and insulate it.
The setup is completely completed, and you have independently connected the multifunction steering wheel to the aftermarket radio.

Some craftsmen decide to connect the radio to the steering wheel without having buttons on it. A natural question arises before them - how to make a multifunction steering wheel with your own hands. This is quite possible for those who are closely “friends” with electronics. I can give advice to everyone else - just buy a ready-made multifunctional steering wheel, this will save you from wasting time and money.

Source: drivertip.ru

Connection errors

Typical malfunctions in the operation of multifunction steering wheel buttons occur for the following reasons:

Incorrect pinout of connections - connect according to the diagram.
The contact on any connector is broken, or a wire break has occurred: if you cannot visually find a break, then you need to “ring” sections of the wires with a multimeter in ohmmeter mode and check the connections at the terminals.
One of the functions of the button does not work - the activation was not complete: reset the multifunction steering wheel settings by disconnecting the adapter, and reprogram the system again.
Spontaneous failure of operation - short circuit (fuse has blown): replace the fuse in the block, check the connectors for moisture, dirt, inspect the fastening of the ground wire.

During installation, you should take into account the standard connectors of a particular radio - connection diagrams may differ: in such cases, you should adhere to the technical description of the multimedia device.

G0rg0n › Blog › Multifunction steering wheel (FAQ) questions and answers

0. What do I need to install the multifunction steering wheel (UPD 04/18/18)

As it turns out, many people have no idea of either the general list of parts or the installation process. I still haven’t gotten around to describing the installation process, so I’ll temporarily post a list of parts. — (PQ35) Octavia A5, Yeti, Superb 2 Steering column unit in 99% of cases, airbag wire with a tail of buttons, and of course the steering wheel itself with buttons or buttons for new-style steering wheels. Another maxidot so that the right side of the buttons works and dragonfly without BC buttons for beauty (can be disabled programmatically). — (PQ25, PQ26) Rapid (all modifications), Fabia 2, Roomster Buttons or steering wheel, airbag cable with a tail of buttons, a pair of wires from the return ring to the fuse box and the comfort unit. For everyone except Rapid, from mid-2015 you need to look at the comfort unit for multi-steering wheel support, maxidot for right-hand side operation and replacing the dragonfly (or disabling the BC buttons mechanically) - (MQB) buttons or steering wheel, airbag wire with button tail, gateway with multi-steering wheel support and contacting OD/knowledgeable people regarding the issue of removing component protection. The presence of a maxidot is not required.

1. I have an Octavia A5FL, I want a multifunction steering wheel, not expensive

Sorry, but this happens very rarely. To install a multi-steering wheel, in 99% of cases you need to change the steering column unit to a similar one with multi-steering wheel support, and sometimes it costs good money. More on this later.

2. I have an Octavia A5 up to FL and I want a multifunction steering wheel

The same as in point 1, but there are some limitations; the standard pre-FL multifunction steering wheel will not control either a simple BC or a Maxidot. But this can be solved, see point 9

3. How do I determine which steering column unit I need?

There were three types of blocks on the A5/A5FL and co-platform units www.drive2.ru/l/1098983 and they have different seats, so when replacing you need to look for a block of your series. You can determine whether your steering column unit supports a multifunction steering wheel or not from the table wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/i…s#Part_Number_5K0-953-569 Look for information on later units from the officials or fellow club members. On my own behalf, I will say that the multifunction steering wheel is supported by blocks 5k0-953-569-AL, 5k0-953-569-BD. The 5k0-953-569-AP block also supports multi-steering wheel, but according to the manufacturer’s intention, it is for cars with manual transmission, because it does not have the key locked in the lock if the automatic transmission is not in park mode. Club members installed this unit on a car with a machine gun; apart from the above, no other disadvantages were noticed. ATTENTION! The 5k0-953-569-T block does not fit on Skoda, as they say, we swam, we know! So don't beat yourself up.

What is a multifunction steering wheel and what is a servo steering wheel?

Most drivers, when purchasing a vehicle, try to study its configuration as best as possible and become familiar with the main details in detail. Since progress in the automotive industry is growing at a rapid pace, they often do not have time to keep up with some new products and do not always understand what certain devices are intended for.

In particular, many questions from motorists, especially beginners, are raised by devices such as multifunction steering wheel and servo steering wheel. What are these options? And why are they needed in a car?

What is multifunction?

A multi-steering wheel is a type of steering wheel installed in vehicles of different brands. Its name is an abbreviation for the concept of “multifunctional steering wheel ,” meaning that in addition to controlling the movement of the car, it performs a number of additional functions.

Visually, the device looks like a regular steering wheel, but on its spokes there are many buttons that provide easy control of other vehicle devices.

Using the multifunction steering wheel, you can control almost the entire electronic system of the car, so the driver is not distracted from driving in search of the required button. When moving at a speed of 90 km/h, you can travel about 25 meters in 1 second. During this time, if the driver is distracted to reach the dashboard, there is a high probability of getting into an accident. Such problems do not arise with a multifunction steering wheel, since the buttons on it are located in such a way that they can be pressed by touch.

What is a multifunction steering wheel and what is a servo steering wheel? — Database of answers to any questions

Most drivers, when purchasing a vehicle, try to study its configuration as best as possible and become familiar with the main details in detail.

Since progress in the automotive industry is growing at a rapid pace, they often do not have time to keep up with some new products and do not always understand what certain devices are intended for.

What is multifunction?

A multi-steering wheel is a type of steering wheel installed in vehicles of different brands. Its name is an abbreviation for the concept of “multifunctional steering wheel,” meaning that in addition to controlling the movement of the car, it performs a number of additional functions.

Visually, the device looks like a regular steering wheel, but on its spokes there are many buttons that provide easy control of other vehicle devices.

During this time, if the driver is distracted to reach the dashboard, there is a high probability of getting into an accident. Such problems do not arise with a multifunction steering wheel, since the buttons on it are located in such a way that they can be pressed by touch.

What functions does the multifunction steering wheel perform in a car?

Depending on the functionality, all multifunction steering wheels can be divided into several categories. The simplest ones are equipped with a small set of options and often provide the ability to control only the car receiver. They are quite inexpensive, made of low-quality plastic, so they are not always convenient to use.

The second group of multifunction steering wheels has a larger number of options, is made of high-quality plastic and, in addition to controlling the radio, allows you to adjust heated seats or climate control.

What is a servo steering wheel?

Servo steering is a more complex concept that does not have an official definition and came into the automotive vocabulary from the aviation industry. In flight, a servo rudder is a steering surface through which a pilot can create balancing forces on the rudders and thereby make it easier for him to control aircraft.

If we talk about cars, the principle of operation of a servo steering wheel on them is approximately the same, that is, this device is a steering wheel with a special mechanism that changes the force on the steering wheel depending on the speed of the vehicle. Visually, this mechanism is not visible from the interior, but it can be seen if you look into the steering shaft area.

What is a servo steering wheel used for?

The main purpose of the servo steering wheel is to provide the driver with comfortable steering wheel rotation. When parking the car, you can turn it even with one finger, and at high speed the device makes the steering wheel more rigid, so you can avoid excessive maneuverability when driving.

In modern cars, the servo steering wheel is adjustable to a comfortable position in height, and in some expensive models, also in reach.

Multifunction steering wheel: pros and cons

The concept of a multi-wheel is an interpretation of the concept of a conventional steering wheel, loaded with additional capabilities. The first attempts to load the steering wheel with additional capabilities appeared with the placement of a horn key on the steering wheel at the beginning of the last century. Then, closer to the steering wheel, more precisely on the steering column, other controls for car functions began to be placed:

switching lighting equipment;
windshield wiper control;
direction indicator switch;
controls for people with disabilities.

At one time, manufacturers began to place the gearshift lever in the area of the steering console. This practice did not have much success. Firstly, it complicates the design. Secondly, changing gears takes longer than operating the dragonfly levers. This desynchronizes the driver's hands while simultaneously moving in the same plane. It is difficult for a person to make prolonged rotational movements of the arms in different directions.

With the introduction of digital technologies, push-button controls began to be attached to the steering wheel, or rather to the steering wheel, first for the car radio, then for cruise control and other systems. Experts in ergonomics (the science of organizing a workplace) apparently decided that the driver’s fingers were not yet fully used when driving.

The time is not far when the steering wheel of passenger cars will look like in Formula 1.

What is a multifunction steering wheel, classification

The main purpose of the multifunction steering wheel is to move the driver's main control area to the central viewing area, located in the area of the steering wheel and windshield. At the same time, the driver’s attention is not distracted by searching for the necessary control button located outside the viewing area.

When controlling vehicle functions control bodies, the driver operates in the following modes:

automaticity (for example, gear shifting, braking, accelerator);
separation of control organs (steering wheel - hands, pedals - feet);
additional control (voice control of modes).

The main idea of the multi-steering wheel is to additionally load the hands, or rather the fingers, with additional functions in order to speed up control processes and less distract the driver from monitoring the road situation.

Classification of multifunction steering wheels

1. By degree of integration:

small up to 5 buttons;
average – from 5 to 15;
large - more than 15 buttons, including pseudo-joysticks.

2. According to the method of transmitting information from the buttons:

wireless;
wired.

3. By type of button signal:

digital;
analog.

Advantages and disadvantages

For each age group of drivers, control using a multifunction steering wheel has its own pros and cons. This is similar to the situation with smartphones. Older people find it more difficult to find a common language with the process of managing smartphone modes than younger people. By the way, studies have shown that young people, as they move into another age category, find it more difficult to understand the numerous options and functions of complex electronic devices. I will only dwell on the pros and cons of multi-function steering wheels that are common to all age categories of drivers.

Concentrates the driver's attention zone into the main viewing area.
Reducing hand motor processes when servicing numerous vehicle control systems. There is also a small minus to this: the lack of additional physical exercise. You can fall asleep clinging to the steering wheel.
Increasing the speed of driving a car and its additional systems.

Increased likelihood of control failure. A classic malfunction is damage to the steering column cable. This is the weak link in the multifunction steering wheel. Often such damage occurs after the front airbag has deployed, during steering repairs. From this point of view, wireless signal transmission from the buttons on the steering wheel is more reliable, but it also has its drawbacks.
The buttons do not have a static position while driving, since the steering wheel rotates. This makes it difficult for the passenger to control the steering wheel buttons if the driver asks them to do so.
Learning to control the buttons on the steering wheel takes some time. Initially, the steering wheel buttons are more distracting than the fixed controls.

Multi-steering wheel and servo steering wheel - what's the difference?

The language of avid motorists is replete with mysterious words, which are not so easy for a beginner to understand. In this case, we will talk about such concepts as multifunction steering wheel and servo steering wheel.

In fact, these are the same devices for driving a car, only slightly improved.

Multifunctional steering wheel

The full name of such a steering wheel sounds like multifunctional, that is, it serves not only for turns; additional buttons with various functions can be built into its steering wheel. For example, these could be audio system control keys so that the driver does not have to take his hands off the steering wheel in order to turn up the volume of his favorite song or change the radio station.

UAZ multi steering wheel / Source: Drom

In more expensive models, there may be even more functions and everything your heart desires is transferred to the steering wheel: control of the on-board computer, cruise control, suspension, etc. Thus, the steering wheel of an ordinary car turns into something like the steering wheel of a racing car, which is actually just littered with various buttons. After all, the driver of the car doesn’t even have a hundredth of a second to tear himself away from the steering wheel and switch something on the dashboard.

True, it takes them time to figure out the numerous buttons, get used to them, and even press the desired key accurately even at high speed. After all, a mistake can be fatal.

The buttons on a regular steering wheel are also designed to increase driving safety, but, on the other hand, you will have to get used to them, and this will take time. And even though the speeds are far from the same as on the race track, attention will still be required.

So here, let everyone decide for themselves whether such an innovation will be truly convenient for them personally.

Servo steering wheel

This is an improved steering wheel, the parameters of which can be adjusted. First of all, this is the usual adjustment of the height and offset of the steering wheel, so that each person can adjust these parameters with maximum convenience for themselves. This function has existed for quite some time, it turns out that now all steering wheels are actually “servos”.

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However, there are other functions that are not yet used everywhere. For example, gain control. The higher the speed, the more effort is required when turning the steering wheel, this is necessary for better smoothness when cornering. In parking lots and any other slow traffic, the steering wheel can be easily turned with one hand.