Honda CR-V Heated Steering Wheel (Availability, Cost, and More)

Holding a frozen steering wheel in winter isn’t much fun, especially if you’re not a fan of wearing thick gloves. We’ve all been there! Luckily, the Honda CR-V offers a heated steering wheel, so you no longer have to endure freezing hands without gloves or wrap the steering wheel in a thick, furry cover that can be quite distracting while driving.

If you’re wondering whether the Honda CR-V has a heated steering wheel and which model years and trim levels include this feature, I’ve got you covered.

Model Availability

The heated steering wheel has been available on the Honda CR-V since the 2017 model year. However, it remains an optional feature until it becomes standard on certain trims starting in 2020.

Here’s a breakdown by model year:

• 2017-2019 Honda CR-V: The heated steering wheel is an option across all trim levels.
• 2020-2025 Honda CR-V: It is available as an option on all trim levels, except for the Sport Touring/Sport Touring Hybrid, which is included as standard.

Based on this information, you can enjoy the heated steering wheel feature by default without additional cost if you opt for the highest trim, like the 2025 Sport Touring Hybrid. You’ll need to pay extra for other trims to add this feature to your CR-V at the time of purchase.

How about the older Honda CR-V?

If you drive a Honda CR-V from before the 2017 model year or are considering a used CR-V that doesn’t include a heated steering wheel, the factory option won’t be available.

However, if you’re set on having this feature, you can consider aftermarket options—we’ll explore that in more detail later.

Cost

If the trim level you choose comes with a heated steering wheel as standard, you don’t have to pay more for the feature. However, if the heated steering wheel is not part of the trim, you must add it to your CR-V. The heated steering wheel is available for an additional $470, regardless of your chosen trim level, except for the Sport Touring Hybrid, which includes it as standard.

Are They Worth It?

So, how do you determine if paying $470 more for a heated steering wheel is worth it? It’s helpful to consider your lifestyle, climate, and budget when deciding if a heated steering wheel is right for you.

For instance, if you live in an area with frequent snowfall and drive daily, investing in a heated steering wheel could be a wise choice. However, you might not find it necessary if you reside in a region with minimal snow or don’t drive often. Additionally, evaluating the benefits and drawbacks can help you understand whether the heated steering wheel is worth the extra cost.

Benefits

There are several benefits of a heated steering wheel. Here are some of them.

• Warm Hands Directly: Enjoy cozy fingers on chilly drives.
• No Gloves Needed: Instant warmth at your fingertips.
• Easy Controls: Adjust heat settings without moving your hands.
• Consistent Warmth: Feel the heat wherever you sit.

Drawbacks

• Heat Focused on Hands: Only your hands get warm, not the whole body.
• Overly Hot Settings: The highest heat level might be uncomfortably warm.

How to Use a Heated Steering Wheel

Activating the heated steering wheel feature is quite straightforward; just press the button on the steering wheel.

Here’s a simple guide on how to use the heated steering wheel:

1. Turn on the Power Mode: Ensure the power mode is set to ON.
2. Activate the Heat: Press the button located on the lower or right side of the steering wheel (the location may vary depending on the model year).
3. Adjust Temperature: Once the steering wheel reaches a comfortable temperature, press the button again to turn off the heat.
4. Power Cycle Reminder: The heated steering wheel will turn off each time you activate the power system, even if it was on during your last drive.

Aftermarket Options

An aftermarket solution might be worth considering for those driving older-generation Honda CR-Vs without the heated steering wheel option. Heated steering wheel covers are a simple and relatively affordable way to add this feature. Many heated steering wheel covers are available on the market, with prices starting at around $30. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of heated steering wheel covers:

Advantages:

• Affordable
• Easily available
• Simple to install

Disadvantages:

• Tangled wires can be a hazard; ensure neat installation for safety.
• Less practical compared to built-in options

Stay Warm

Extreme winter cold can make driving more challenging. Cold, stiff hands can be very distracting and dangerous. Gloves and furry steering wheel covers are options to keep your hands warm, but the heated steering wheel feature simplifies things. With a heated steering wheel, your hands stay warm without the need for thick gloves, which can be uncomfortable and make it harder to grip the steering wheel.