How to update the drivers on a Fanatec Wheel Base

Before we go into detail and a step-by-step guide on how to update the drivers of your Fanatec Wheel Base, we need to differ between Firmware and Driver.

Drivers are software components that facilitate communication between the operating system and specific hardware devices, in this case your Fanatec Wheel Base, Shifter, Steering Wheel, etc. Firmware, on the other hand, is responsible for the overall operation of the device and may include drivers within its code.

So, currently within the Fanatec Control Panel software you can update both, the firmware of your devices and also the Fanatec driver.

Let’s guide you through it.

Each driver contains firmware for the following hardware:

• Wheel Bases
• Selected Steering Wheels
• USB Pedals (via USB)
• ClubSport USB Adaptor

IMPORTANT: You should always connect your steering wheels to your wheel base after installing a new driver to check if a firmware update is available.

When firmware updates are available for a connected hardware, navigate to the ‘Firmware Update’ tab to view firmware details and available updates for each device.

Additionally, when firmware updates are available for connected hardware it will be clearly indicated in the bottom-left corner of the driver UI. You will be navigated to the ‘Firmware Update’ tab by clicking on the notification.

Select ‘Open Firmware Manager’ to proceed with initiating firmware updates. The available firmware updates will be displayed based on your hardware configuration.

NOTE: Firmware can be updated manually by clicking on ‘Manual Firmware Update’. For advanced users only! Risks include hardware damage and permanent bricking of the device.

NOTE: When combining the Podium Hub and Button Module Endurance, you may experience issues updating each device’s firmware. If you do, disconnect the Button Module Endurance connector from the Podium Hub and reconnect it after the firmware update of the Podium Hub. Firmware updates can be done through the driver when using a ClubSport USB Adapter connected directly to a PC via USB.

Simply select on ‘Update’ to start the firmware updating process:

The firmware manager will guide you through all necessary steps in order to update the firmware of your Fanatec hardware:

When driver updates are available it will be clearly indicated in the bottom left corner of the driver UI.

To download the newest available driver, then simply navigate to the ‘Settings’ tab and select ‘Check for Update’, or ‘Download Newest Driver’ in the ‘Driver Update’ bar. If you haven’t already installed your Fanatec Driver, then go to our website where you can always download the latest version. Then the program will guide you through the installation and asks you to restart your system in the end.

After restarting, you’ve successfully updated your device’s firmware and the Fanatec driver! Wasn’t that difficult after all, was it? Make sure to visit fanatec.com to find the best deals on sim racing hardware!