What does Spring (SPR) in Fanatec's Tuning Menu Do?

The Spring (SPR) setting on Fanatec wheel bases controls an artificial centering force – a non-physics-based effect that pulls the wheel back to center like a mechanical spring would. It’s not generated by the simulation itself but is instead a software-level effect provided by the wheel base. This makes SPR one of the more misunderstood and rarely needed settings in modern sim racing.

SPR applies a centering torque when the wheel is turned off-center. Unlike self-aligning torque (which is simulated based on tire forces and vehicle physics), SPR applies this force consistently regardless of what’s happening in the sim. It mimics how a toy racing wheel might center itself – but in the context of serious sim racing, this is usually redundant or even disruptive.

• In modern sims like iRacing, Assetto Corsa Competizione, rFactor 2, or Le Mans Ultimate, SPR is ignored or overridden. These games use physics engines to simulate realistic forces, including natural centering due to tire grip and alignment.
• Enabling SPR in these titles can introduce conflicting forces, making the steering feel artificial or unpredictable.
• In older or arcade-style games, SPR may be used to simulate FFB where physics-based centering isn’t available. For example, in Euro Truck Simulator 2 or Need for Speed Shift, SPR can provide a useful (if artificial) feeling of wheel centering.

• iRacing: Set SPR to 0% or OFF. iRacing does not use SPR and relies on fully simulated forces.
• Assetto Corsa / ACC: Set SPR to 0%. These titles generate their own realistic self-aligning torque.
• F1 23: Set to OFF. Codemasters games provide strong physics-based feedback and don’t benefit from artificial spring forces.
• Euro Truck Simulator 2: You may set SPR to 50–100% if you want a noticeable self-centering effect.
• Older simcade titles: Test SPR settings around 30–70% to find a preference, depending on how the title was designed.

Generally, no – SPR should not be maxed out unless a specific title requires it. In nearly all modern sims, it’s best to turn it off entirely to let the game’s own force feedback system do the work. Maxing it out can interfere with proper feedback and degrade realism.

The Spring (SPR) setting on Fanatec wheels is an artificial centering tool that has limited relevance in modern sim racing. Most serious titles don’t use it, and keeping it enabled can interfere with natural force feedback. For most sim racers, the best setting is 0% or OFF – only re-enable it for older or non-physics-based titles where it’s needed.