Why is Ford getting rid of heated steering wheels?
Ford is removing heated steering wheels from many of its mainstream models in North America and parts of Europe as part of a broader drive to simplify trims, cut costs, and accelerate its electrification strategy. The change is being rolled out selectively by market and model and may vary by trim level.
Why Ford is removing heated steering wheels
The decision is driven by multiple strategic considerations that aim to reduce costs, improve production efficiency, and align offerings with market demand.
Cost and efficiency considerations
Ford points to the direct costs of components, added trim complexity, and the electrical load that heated wheels place on the vehicle’s systems, especially for plug-in hybrids and EVs where range is a concern.
- Lower production and parts costs by removing an optional feature
- Reduce electrical load and potential battery drain on EVs and hybrids
- Simplify supply chain and inventory management across regions
- Improve profitability by focusing on high-demand essentials in mainstream trims
Conclusion: The combination of cost savings, efficiency gains, and a tighter product lineup is shaping Ford’s decision to drop heated steering wheels from many trims.
Market strategy and customer demand
Market considerations play a role: heated wheels are more common in luxury models and colder climates, so Ford is testing if the feature adds enough value in its broader lineup to justify the cost.
- Standardize pricing and features across regions
- Retain heated steering wheels as an optional upgrade on higher-end models
- Focus engineering and feature development on aspects with broader demand
Conclusion: By treating heated steering wheels as an option or regional choice, Ford can maintain flexibility while pursuing volume and margin targets.
Scope: where and how many models are affected
Ford’s rollout is being deployed gradually and varies by market, model, and trim. Here’s what has been observed so far.
- Markets: North America and parts of Europe have seen reductions in mainstream trims; regional variations exist
- Model coverage: The change affects several popular models across SUVs, trucks, and crossovers, with exceptions for higher trims or regional packages
- Alternatives: Heated seats and other climate comforts remain available; some trims may offer alternative comfort features
Conclusion: The precise scope will continue to evolve as Ford updates its catalog and responds to customer feedback and competitive dynamics.
Implications for customers and dealers
Customers shopping for a Ford should check the standard equipment list for their preferred trim, as heated steering wheels may be removed from many base- or mid-range configurations. Dealers will need to communicate the change and offer alternative features or packages.
- Pricing and features: Potential adjustments to base pricing or optional packages; heated wheel could be moved to premium packages
- Availability: Some regions may see continued availability on premium trims or limited editions
- Customer communication: Clear guidance on what’s included in each trim is essential to avoid confusion
Conclusion: The shift could alter value perception for buyers who expected heated steering wheels as a standard or commonly available feature, making informed browsing more important.
What Ford is saying and what to watch
Ford frames this change as part of a broader effort to simplify its product lineup, control costs, and redirect resources toward electrification and core technologies. Watch for updates in 2025 model-year catalogs and dealer communications as the company continues refining its trims across regions.
Summary
Ford’s decision to drop heated steering wheels reflects a pragmatic approach to cost control and product simplification amid a rapid push toward electrification. The change is rolling out selectively, with variation by market and trim. For buyers, the key takeaway is to verify the features on the specific model and trim you’re considering, and to expect heated steering wheels to be less common in base configurations while remaining possible on higher-end options in some regions.
