What does NFR (Natural Friction) in Fanatec’s Tuning Menu Do?

NFR, or Natural Friction, is a setting in Fanatec's tuning menu that simulates the internal mechanical resistance you’d feel in a real steering system. It adds a consistent, non-dynamic level of friction to the steering wheel, independent of the game's force feedback signals. This feature is especially useful for enhancing realism and helping to eliminate unwanted oscillations, particularly in high-torque direct drive systems.

Natural Friction doesn't respond to what’s happening in the game – rather, it’s a static force that adds weight and resistance to the steering wheel. Increasing NFR makes the wheel feel heavier and more damped, especially during subtle inputs or when the car is moving in a straight line. Decreasing it makes the wheel feel more "floaty" and light, which can be ideal for certain vehicles or driving styles.

When NFR helps:

• Open-wheel racing (e.g., iRacing F3/F1, F1 24): These cars typically have light, precise steering. A low to moderate NFR (e.g., 5–15%) can give the wheel more weight without compromising agility.
• Drifting or rallying (e.g., DiRT Rally 2.0): A touch of NFR helps control overcorrections by stabilizing the wheel’s return-to-center movement.
• Street cars (e.g., Assetto Corsa or Gran Turismo 7): Road cars often have power steering with a noticeable frictional feel. Setting NFR to 10–20% can replicate that sensation.

When too much NFR hurts:

• High NFR can muffle or distort force feedback, making it harder to feel road texture, grip loss, or understeer.
• It can also lead to fatigue, especially during long races, as the constant resistance adds to the physical effort of driving.

As with settings like this, there’s no one-size-fits-all, but here are general guidelines:

• 0–5: Very light friction – best for users who want raw, undamped Force Feedback (FFB) or are running low torque.
• 5–15: Balanced – adds some realism without compromising responsiveness. Ideal for most users.
• 15–30+: Heavier feel – simulates heavier steering systems but may reduce feedback clarity.

Generally, no. Maxing out NFR will make the wheel feel unnaturally stiff and lifeless. It’s not meant to replace FFB strength or damping but to fine-tune the physical feel of the wheel. You’re better off using it to compliment the force feedback, not overwhelm it.

Pro Tip: Pair NFR with NDP (Natural Damper) and NIN (Natural Inertia) for a more complete, customizable feel. For example, in iRacing, a combo like NFR 10, NDP 20, and NIN 5–10 can produce a very balanced, car-like sensation without interfering with detail.

NFR is a powerful tool to add realism and control, but it should be used thoughtfully. Start low, adjust gradually, and always balance it with the in-game FFB feel.