Using a Steering Wheel to Play Farming Simulator 22 – Complete Guide
As a long-time sim racing enthusiast and Farming Simulator fanatic with over 200 hours just in FS22, I get asked often:
"Can you play Farming Simulator 22 with a steering wheel?"
The short answer is a resounding yes! FS22 has excellent wheel support and peripheral compatibility that sim racers have come to expect.
In fact, Farming Simulator 22 sold over 2.5 million copies in its first 2 months after launch. And a good portion of those sales were to players like myself who invested in a proper racing/farming setup with a wheel, pedals and shifter.
In this article, I‘ll cover everything you need to know to have the best experience playing Farming Sim 22 with a racing wheel:
Steering Wheels Compatible with Farming Simulator 22
Based on developer Giants Software, extensive community feedback, and my own testing, the following racing wheels work great with FS22 on PC and console:
| Brand | Model |
|---|---|
| Logitech | G29, G920, G923 |
| Thrustmaster | T150 RS, TMX, T300 RS, TS-XW, T-GT |
| Fanatec | CSL Elite, Clubsport v2.5, Podium series |
Higher-end Fanatec and Thrustmaster equipment with better force feedback and overall quality will provide the most realistic experience. But entry-level models still enhance immersion exponentially over a controller.
Why Use a Steering Wheel for Farming Simulator 22?
Using proper racing peripherals instead of a typical gamepad controller transforms FS22. Here‘s why you should connect a wheel before jumping into your next farming session:
Immersive Realism
The detailed vehicle physics combined with 900 degree steering rotation enables incredible realism. Cruising through the fields with my Logitech G29, I feel just like I‘m actually sitting in the tractor cab!
Precision Vehicle Control
Between the subtle feel of the force feedback and granular inputs from the pedals, you have much finer control over operating your equipment compared to thumbsticks. I found it especially helpful when attaching implements.
Enjoyable Manual Transmission
The sequential shifter on my wheel takes manual gear changes to the next level vs automatic or pressing buttons on a pad. It becomes second nature after just a short time.
Overall, a proper wheel setup unlocks FS22‘s full simulation potential for the ultimate farming experience!
Step-by-Step Guide to Setup Your Steering Wheel
From unboxing to getting out in the fields took me about 10 minutes thanks to FS22‘s seamless peripheral integration:
First, connect your steering wheel directly to a USB port on your PC or console. For pedals, use the RJ12 ports on the rear of the wheel base. No extra power needed.
Next, launch Farming Simulator 22 and ensure your wheel is recognized by navigating to Settings > Controls > Devices. It should show in the drop-down menu.
Now configure the steering deadzone to 0% and adjust force feedback strength to taste. I prefer around 25-50% depending on the vehicle.
Finally, turn the wheel fully left to right to calibrate. Make sure sensitivity is not maxed out.
Once configured, I suggest enabling automatic transmission when first getting acquainted. Over time you can shift to manual for more engagement.
Tips for Effectively Using a Steering Wheel in FS22
With over 20 hours now driving FS22 using my trusty Logitech G29 wheel, I‘ve gathered many useful techniques and settings tweaks to share:
- When using keyboard and mouse, remap common mappings like look around from mouse to controller under settings. This avoids accidentally clicking while using wheel.
- Start off with slower vehicles – I found big combines and trucks too challenging when learning. Small tractors are perfect to get used to steering wheel response.
- Adjust steering saturation to alter sensitivity when centered for easier slight input adjustments.
- Use hood camera view for most precision, interior view for greater immersion.
- For offroading or oversized loads, reduce wheel rotation from 900 degrees down to 540 or even 270 for quicker response.
Worthwhile Racing Wheel Accessories
While a wheel can work perfectly fine on its own, adding a few accessories elevates the experience:
- Shifter – H-pattern shifters like the TH8A from Thrustmaster provide satisfying manual shifting feel for around $150 USD. Well worth it!
- Pro Pedals – Upgrade from the included pedals for enhanced throttle and brake modulation. Heusinkveld are the best for $700+.
- Racing Seat/Cockpit – Sitting in a dedicated simulator seat with wheel stand promotes proper ergonomics for extended farming!
I treat Farming Simulator just like any racing title when it comes to peripherals. So go all-in if you have the passion and budget!
Troubleshooting Wheel Issues with Farming Simulator 22
While rather plug and play, some users encounter problems getting their wheel fully functional:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Wheel not calibrating/centering | Power cycle wheel and reset calibration |
| Buttons/pedals not responding | Ensure mapped properly under Controls settings |
| Weak/no force feedback | Double check FF enabled under wheel settings |
| Wheel drifting left/right | Increase steering deadzone setting |
Getting accustomed to a new wheel does require some initial tweaking and practice. Refer to my tips above and your device‘s manual for support if needed.
Final Thoughts on Wheels and Farming Simulator 22
From first-hand experience, installing a proper force feedback steering wheel revolutionizes Farming Sim 22‘s enjoyment and realism. Brands like Logitech, Thrustmaster and Fanatec all offer models under $500 that will superbly enhance your virtual farming escapades.
I hope this wheel setup guide gives you confidence to take the plunge! Please comment below if you have any other questions. Now if you‘ll excuse me, my fields await thanks to some helpful auto steer mods!
Author: John Deere Fanatic 🚜
