BMW 1 Series 2 Series 3 Series 4 Series F30 F31 F32 F33 F20 M3 M4 Steering Wheel with Heater

For the BMW F-Series (F20, F21, F22, F30, F32, F80 M3, F82 M4), the heated steering wheel is a highly sought-after comfort feature, typically bundled with the Cold Weather Package (Option Code S494A/S248A).

If you are looking to purchase a replacement or perform a retrofit, here is everything you need to know about the hardware, compatibility, and the specific “M Sport” configuration.

1. The “M Sport” Heated Steering Wheel

The heated version of the iconic 3-spoke M Sport wheel is physically different from the non-heated version. It contains a specialized internal heating element (resistance wire) wrapped beneath the leather.

• The “Bare” Wheel: Part number 32307847607 is the common factory heated leather wheel for the M3 (F80) and M4 (F82).

  Stitching: Genuine M wheels feature the signature Tri-Color (Blue/Dark Blue/Red) stitching. Standard F30 M Sport wheels typically have black stitchin

• Control Module: The heated wheel requires a specific Internal Control Unit (Part No. 61317849393) tucked inside the bottom spoke of the wheel to manage the thermal regulation.

2. Button Location & Operation

Unlike newer G-chassis BMWs that have the heater button on the steering wheel spoke, the F-Series uses a column-mounted switch.

• Location: The button is located on the left side of the steering column trim, just below the turn signal stalk.

• Visual Confirmation: When activated, a small LED on the button illuminates, and a notification “Steering Wheel Heating Activated” briefly appears in the Instrument Cluster (KOMBI).

3.etrofit Requirements (Non-Heated to Heated)

If your car did not come with this feature from the factory, simply swapping the wheel is not enough. To make it functional, you typically need the “Retrofit Kit” components:

1. Heated Steering Wheel: Must have the internal heating element.

2. Clock Spring (Slip Ring): You must upgrade to a slip ring that has the additional pins for the 12V heating power.

3. Lower Column Trim: A new plastic cowl with the cutout for the heater button.

4. The Button Switch: Part No. 61319201736.

5. Coding: You must add Option 248 to your vehicle’s VO (Vehicle Order) using a tool like E-Sys or BimmerCode to tell the car to send power to that circuit.

Compatibility Matrix

Pro Tip: If you are buying a used wheel, ensure it is not an Alcantara M Performance wheel unless specifically stated. Most Alcantara wheels (like the one with the digital display) do not support heating because the material does not transfer heat well and can be damaged by the element.