Retrofitting an L663 Heated Steering Wheel: A Comprehensive Guide

For Land Rover L663 owners, especially in colder climates or those with conditions like Raynaud’s disease, a heated steering wheel is more than a luxury—it’s a significant comfort and convenience feature. If you’re considering adding this feature to your L663, you might be wondering if it’s possible to retrofit a heated steering wheel and what the process involves. This guide will walk you through the essentials of retrofitting a heated steering wheel to your Land Rover L663, drawing upon community knowledge and expert insights to provide a comprehensive overview.

Is it Possible to Retrofit a Heated Steering Wheel to an L663?

The short answer is yes, retrofitting a heated steering wheel to an L663 Land Rover Defender is indeed possible. While some models may not come with this feature as standard, the vehicle’s architecture is designed to accommodate it. Enthusiasts and retrofit specialists have successfully added heated steering wheel functionality to L663 models, proving it’s a viable upgrade. The process primarily involves replacing certain components and making necessary software configurations to activate the heating function.

Parts You’ll Need for the L663 Heated Steering Wheel Retrofit

To successfully retrofit a heated steering wheel, you’ll need to acquire several specific parts. Based on community discussions and expert recommendations, the essential components include:

• Heated Steering Wheel: This is the core component. Ensure you source a steering wheel specifically designed for the L663 and equipped with the heating element. There might be different part numbers depending on the model year, so verify compatibility with your vehicle’s VIN. Part numbers like LR132112 and LR183010 have been mentioned in discussions, suggesting different versions might exist.
• Switch Pack: The steering wheel switch pack, which typically includes controls for audio, cruise control, and in this case, the heated steering wheel function, will need to be replaced with one that includes the heated steering wheel button.
• Wiring Harness: A new wiring harness is crucial to connect the heated steering wheel to the vehicle’s electrical system. Look for a harness specifically designed for the heated steering wheel retrofit on the L663. It often comes with a black plastic cage for protection and easier installation.
• Clock Spring/Indicator-Wiper Switch Assembly: In some cases, it’s suggested that the entire indicator/wiper switch assembly needs replacement as the clock spring (rotary coupler) might not be available separately for the Defender and a new one is required to support the heated steering wheel functionality. This is a point to double-check based on your specific model and parts supplier.

Key Steps for the L663 Heated Steering Wheel Retrofit Process

While professional installation is always recommended for electrical and component work, understanding the general steps can be helpful. The retrofit process generally involves:

1. Parts Acquisition: Source all the necessary parts mentioned above, ensuring compatibility with your L663 model year.
2. Steering Wheel Removal: Carefully remove the existing steering wheel. This often involves disconnecting the battery, removing airbag components (with utmost caution and professional guidance due to safety risks), and detaching the steering wheel itself.
3. Component Replacement: Replace the existing steering wheel with the new heated steering wheel, install the new switch pack, and integrate the new wiring harness. If necessary, replace the indicator/wiper switch assembly.
4. Wiring and Connections: Connect the new wiring harness to the appropriate points in the vehicle’s electrical system. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly placed. This might involve locating the correct fuse socket (socket no43, 10A fuse has been mentioned).
5. CCF Configuration: This is a critical step. The vehicle’s Configuration Control File (CCF) needs to be modified to enable the heated steering wheel function. This typically requires a diagnostic tool like GAP Diagnostics or similar professional equipment. The setting “Heated Steering Wheel” needs to be enabled in the CCF. Specifically, “EUCD-171 Heated Steering Wheel With Heated Steering Wheel” has been identified as a relevant setting.
6. Testing and Verification: After installation and CCF modification, thoroughly test the heated steering wheel function to ensure it’s working correctly. Check for any fault codes using a diagnostic tool.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

While many retrofits are successful, issues can arise. One reported problem includes the fault code ‘B1380-16 (2F) Steering Wheel Right Switch Pack – circuit voltage below threshold’. This suggests potential problems with the switch pack, wiring, or power supply to the heated steering wheel system. Troubleshooting steps should include:

• Wiring Check: Double-check all wiring connections to ensure they are correctly plugged in, secure, and undamaged. Verify the harness is the correct type and properly installed.
• Fuse Check: Ensure the correct fuse (e.g., 10A in socket no43) is installed and not blown.
• Switch Pack Verification: If fault codes point to the switch pack, consider testing or replacing the switch pack. While less common, a faulty new part is possible.
• CCF Setting Confirmation: Re-verify the CCF settings using a diagnostic tool to ensure the heated steering wheel function is correctly enabled. Comparing CCF settings with a vehicle that factory-fitted the heated steering wheel might provide clues.

Finding the Right Parts and Expertise

Sourcing genuine Land Rover parts is often recommended for optimal compatibility and reliability. Dealers or reputable Land Rover parts suppliers, like forum sponsors specializing in genuine parts (Duckworth Land Rover was mentioned), can be excellent sources. For aftermarket options or specialized retrofit kits, online retailers specializing in Land Rover upgrades may offer solutions.

For the installation and CCF configuration, especially if you are not experienced with automotive electrical work or diagnostic tools, seeking assistance from a professional retrofit specialist or a Land Rover technician is highly advisable. They can ensure proper installation, handle the software configuration correctly, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

Conclusion

Retrofitting a heated steering wheel to your L663 Land Rover Defender is a worthwhile upgrade, particularly for enhanced comfort during colder periods. By understanding the necessary parts, the general process, and potential issues, you can approach this project with confidence. Whether you choose to DIY or seek professional help, upgrading to a heated steering wheel can significantly improve your driving experience in your L663.