Volkswagen Golf 6th Gen Steering Wheel Customization Review

The Limitations of the Stock Golf 6th Gen Steering Wheel

Many Volkswagen Golf 6th Gen owners find the stock steering wheel lacking, particularly when it comes to integrated controls. Features like voice control, call management, and track skipping are often unavailable due to the absence of buttons on the original wheel. This was precisely the concern for a customer who brought their vehicle to us for an upgrade, aiming to transform their 'blank slate' steering wheel into a functional, multi-purpose unit.

Preparing for the Golf 6th Gen Steering Wheel Upgrade

Upgrading to a multifunction steering wheel involves more than just swapping the wheel itself. In this case, the customer had already acquired a used multifunction steering wheel, which was also fitted with a leather cover. A critical aspect of this upgrade is ensuring airbag compatibility. The original airbag is not compatible with the new multifunction wheel, necessitating the replacement of the airbag unit itself for safe and proper operation. This is a non-negotiable safety step.

The Steering Wheel Replacement Process

Removing and replacing the steering wheel requires precision. The original steering wheel is first detached, followed by the removal of the Low-line module. This module is the internal control board of the stock steering wheel. It must be replaced with a High-line module, which supports multifunction capabilities, to enable the use of additional buttons and features. The physical swap of the wheel and module typically takes around 20 minutes.

Once the new multifunction steering wheel is installed, the array of buttons becomes apparent. Controls for volume, track selection, call handling, and mute are strategically placed on the left and right sides. As seen in the nighttime shots, these buttons illuminate, enhancing visibility and aesthetics.

Activating Multifunction Steering Wheel Features: Coding is Essential

The physical installation is only part of the process. To ensure all the new buttons function correctly and integrate with the vehicle's systems, a crucial coding step is required. This process allows the car's computer to recognize the new multifunction steering wheel, enabling features like media control and voice commands. Additionally, MFD (Multi Function Display) adjustment buttons are often added, allowing control over the information displayed on the instrument cluster – a feature not present on all stock Golf 6th Gen steering wheels, though common in higher trims.

The completed steering wheel offers a significantly enhanced look and feel, appearing more premium and feature-rich, akin to a higher trim level. The quality of the leather cover further contributes to the elevated cabin ambiance.

Post-Upgrade Benefits of the Multifunction Steering Wheel

The illuminated buttons provide a satisfying visual element during nighttime driving, improving usability and reducing accidental presses. This enhances overall driving safety. The convenience factor in daily driving is substantially improved, as adjustments to volume, track selection, and call management can be made directly from the steering wheel, minimizing distraction from the infotainment system. The addition of call functions also contributes to a safer driving environment.