How to turn on heated steering wheel Subaru Ascent?
In most Subaru Ascents that offer it, a heated steering wheel is activated by a dedicated button on the center console near the climate controls. Press the button to activate, and a small indicator lights up to confirm it's on; warmth should begin within a few minutes. If your model lacks the button, the feature may not be fitted to your trim or package.
Availability and where to find the control
Not every Ascent trim includes a heated steering wheel. If your vehicle has the feature, you’ll typically find the control on the center stack near the climate controls. It’s a button with a steering wheel icon and heat waves. If you can’t locate a control, check the owner’s manual or confirm with a dealer whether your trim includes heated steering.
- Confirm your trim level or optional package includes heated steering wheel (check window sticker, owner's manual, or Subaru's official spec sheet).
- Inspect the center console around the climate controls for a button labeled HEATED STEERING WHEEL (steering wheel with heat waves).
- If the button isn’t present, your Ascent may not be equipped with the feature or may require a factory option; otherwise consult a dealer for confirmation.
Understanding whether your Ascent supports this feature and where the control sits helps you access comfort on cold days quickly.
How to turn it on and off
Use these steps to activate or deactivate the heated steering wheel.
- With the engine running and climate control active, locate the heated steering wheel control on the center console near the climate controls.
- Press the HEATED STEERING WHEEL button once to turn it on; an indicator light or icon should illuminate to confirm activation.
- Allow 1–3 minutes for the steering wheel to warm to a comfortable temperature.
- Press the button again to turn it off; the indicator will go out and the wheel will gradually cool.
When off, the wheel remains cool until reactivated. If there is no warmth after several minutes, the feature may be unavailable on your trim or there could be an electrical issue that requires service.
Performance, duration, and usage tips
Here are practical notes on how the feature behaves and how to use it efficiently in cold weather.
- The heated steering wheel typically activates when the ignition is on and the climate system is operating; some models allow control even with the climate set to lower temperatures.
- In cold conditions, heat starts to become noticeable within minutes and reaches comfortable warmth in about 3–5 minutes.
- For faster overall warmth, pair the heated steering wheel with the vehicle’s heated seats if your trim includes them.
- Use the feature as needed to conserve electrical power and battery life, especially when the engine is not running or in idle situations.
These practical guidelines help you stay comfortable without leaving the vehicle settings in higher power modes than necessary.
Troubleshooting and when to contact a dealer
If the heated steering wheel does not respond as expected, consider these steps and actions.
- Verify that your exact Ascent trim supports heated steering wheel; if not, there may be no control to activate.
- Ensure the ignition is on and the climate control is functioning; some setups require the climate system to be active for heating to engage.
- Inspect the control button for obvious damage and try the feature at different climate settings to see if any indicator responds.
- If there is still no warmth or indicator, contact a Subaru dealer or authorized service center to diagnose possible fuse, wiring, or switch issues.
Persistent issues should be evaluated by a professional to avoid electrical problems and ensure proper operation.
Summary
The heated steering wheel is a convenience feature available on select Subaru Ascent trims. It is activated via a dedicated control on the center console near the climate controls, with warmth typically arriving within a few minutes. If your model does not show a control, the feature is likely not equipped. For exact availability and operation tailored to your vehicle year and trim, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Subaru dealer.
How can I make my steering wheel heated?
Yes -- in most cars you can add a heated steering wheel, and there are three practical approaches: retrofit the factory-style heated rim, install an aftermarket steering-wheel heater pad, or fit a heated steering wheel assembly. Choice depends on vehicle, budget, desired appearance, and DIY skill.
Does the Subaru Ascent have a heated steering wheel?
Yes, the Subaru Ascent has a heated steering wheel, but it is available on higher trim levels and in specific packages. For example, the Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring trims offer a heated steering wheel, and some older models had it on the 2022 and newer models with a full-wheel wrap, while some older models had heated zones.
- Availability by trim: A heated steering wheel is a standard feature on higher trims, such as the Onyx Edition, Limited, and Touring.
- Model year differences: Newer models, starting with the 2022 model year, feature a heated steering wheel that covers the entire steering wheel for 360-degree warmth. Older models may have only heated specific zones on the wheel.
- Packages: The heated steering wheel may also be part of an "All-Weather Package" that is included with the Premium trim.
How to turn on a Subaru heated steering wheel?
And I is your intelligent mode which is your normal everyday driving here is your heated steering wheel toggle towards you to turn on and toggle again to turn off.
How do I turn on the heat in a Subaru?
To turn on the heat in a Subaru, start the car, then turn the temperature up using the physical red and blue arrows/dials or the touchscreen, and set the fan speed to your desired level. On many models, you can also use voice commands or the "auto" mode on newer systems for more automated climate control.
Step-by-step guide
- Start the engine: Make sure the engine is running.
- Turn the temperature up:
- Using physical controls: Press the red side of the temperature buttons or turn the dial towards the red side to increase the heat.
- Using the touchscreen: On newer models, touch the temperature display to reveal arrows or a slider bar to increase the heat.
- Adjust the fan speed:
- Using physical controls: Use the fan speed buttons or dial to increase the airflow.
- Using the touchscreen: Use the fan icons on the screen to increase the speed.
- Direct the airflow: Use the buttons or touchscreen to choose where you want the air to blow, such as the feet or the windshield.
Additional features
- Auto Mode: On many modern Subarus, you can press the "AUTO" button to have the system automatically manage the fan speed and temperature.
- Voice Commands: Use the voice command button on the steering wheel and say a command like "Set temperature to 72 degrees".
- Defroster: Press the button with the windshield icon to turn on the front defroster. There are also buttons for the rear defroster and heated mirrors.
- Heated Seats: If your car has them, press the heated seat icon and adjust the level from low to high.
