Steering Wheel Controls: Labels, Meaning, and Comparison for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Chevy Silverado

Steering Wheel Controls: Labels, Meaning, and Practical Comparison

A practical guide to understanding steering wheel controls, their labels, and meanings, with side-by-side comparisons for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Chevy Silverado. Learn how to evaluate differences, identify missing information, and build a shortlist based on your priorities.

What Are Steering Wheel Controls?

Steering wheel controls are buttons and switches integrated into the steering wheel that allow the driver to operate various vehicle functions without taking their hands off the wheel or their eyes off the road. They are also referred to as a multifunction steering wheel, combining access to audio controls, cruise control buttons, and a voice command button, among others. The core purpose is to reduce driver distraction and improve ease of use.

How to Read Steering Wheel Control Labels

Steering wheel controls labeled with icons or text indicate their function. Standard symbols are often standardized across automakers, but some variations exist. Common examples include: a phone icon for call answering/ending, a speaking person for voice commands, volume up/down arrows, and a speedometer with an arrow for cruise control. When labels include text, they are usually short words or abbreviations like “CRUISE,” “VOL,” or “MODE.”

Steering Wheel Controls on the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe features a multifunction steering wheel with controls typically arranged as follows: the left side manages audio and phone functions, including volume, track seek, and voice command; the right side operates cruise control and vehicle settings, with buttons for speed adjustment and following distance. Labels are a mix of icons and text. The exact layout may vary by trim level and options. Without a specific listing, we can describe general expectations but not confirm exact button presence.

Steering Wheel Controls on the 2026 Chevy Silverado

The 2026 Chevy Silverado, as a full-size pickup, also features extensive steering wheel controls. Typically, the left side includes cruise control and audio volume, while the right side includes phone, voice command, and instrument cluster navigation. Given the model year, it may include additional driver assistance toggles. However, feature availability can depend on trim and packages, so it is important to verify specifics from authoritative sources or the actual vehicle.

Side-by-Side Comparison

To help you keep details straight, here is a comparison table based on general trends for these vehicles. Note that this table is illustrative; actual configurations may differ.

Aspect	2023 Hyundai Santa Fe (Typical)	2026 Chevy Silverado (Typical)
Left side controls	Audio: volume, track, mode; Phone: answer/end	Cruise control: on/off, set, resume, speed +/-; Audio volume (sometimes)
Right side controls	Cruise control: set, resume, speed, distance; Vehicle settings	Phone: answer/end; Voice command; Instrument cluster display navigation
Button labels	Mix of icons and text, e.g., phone icon, “CRUISE”	Predominantly icons for core functions, text for less common ones
Voice command button	Typically on left side, short press for native voice, long press for smartphone assistant	Typically on right side, similar short/long press logic

Which Differences Matter?

When comparing steering wheel controls, focus on how the layout matches your driving habits. If you frequently use cruise control, note which side it is on and whether the buttons are easy to reach with your thumb. If you rely on voice commands, check if the button is prominently placed. The number of buttons may not always mean better; sometimes simpler layouts reduce distraction. Also consider button feel: some controls have tactile ridges or different shapes for eyes-free operation.

How to Compare Options Against Personal Priorities

Start by listing the functions you use most: audio, phone, cruise, voice, or driver assistance. Then, for each vehicle you are considering, identify where those controls are located on the steering wheel and how they are labeled. Ask yourself: Are they within natural thumb reach? Do the icons make sense? Can you adjust volume without looking? If you have the opportunity, sit in the vehicle and simulate common actions. For vehicles you cannot see in person, look for detailed interior photos from multiple angles, but be aware that photos may not show every button.

Distinguishing Missing Information from Genuine Drawbacks

Missing information in a listing or review—such as no mention of a specific control—should not automatically be considered a drawback. It could simply be that the author did not detail it. A genuine drawback is a confirmed absence of a control you find essential, or a layout that is awkward for you. Before ruling out a vehicle because a listing does not state a feature, try to verify from official sources or other reviews. If after reasonable effort the information remains unavailable, you may decide that uncertainty is itself a concern, but be cautious not to equate lack of evidence with evidence of lack.

Practical Examples to Clarify Trade-offs

Imagine you often take long highway trips. You might prioritize a vehicle with cruise control buttons on the left side and a clearly marked speed adjustment. If one vehicle puts cruise on the right and you are left-handed, that might feel less natural, but it could be a minor issue once learned. Another example: if you frequently use voice commands for navigation, a dedicated voice button that is easy to find by touch can be more valuable than a cluster of audio controls. No layout is objectively best; it depends on your specific patterns.

Conclusion

Steering wheel controls are a key element of dashboard ease of use. By understanding labels and meanings, comparing layouts side by side, and assessing against your own priorities, you can make a more informed decision. Remember that missing information is not the same as a deficiency, and the best choice is the one that feels most intuitive for your hands and habits.