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How to Configure Hotkeys in Iracing

New to iRacing? Learn how to configure hotkeys in iracing — a step-by-step guide for iRacing beginners to speed controls, reduce menu confusion, and stay focused.

If opening the settings screen makes you want to quit before your first lap, you’re in the right place. This calm, coach-like guide shows exactly how to configure hotkeys in iracing so you can stop hunting menus and start driving with confidence.

how to configure hotkeys in iracing (Quick Answer)

In iRacing you assign hotkeys in the Options > Controls > Key Bindings menu. Pick a command, press the key or button you want, save, and test in a practice session. Use simple, repeatable bindings for pit commands, camera swaps, and cockpit items.

Why this matters for beginners

Hotkeys are the shortcut between fumbling through menus and staying focused on laps. For iRacing beginners, a tidy keymap reduces mistakes (missed pit calls, late fuel changes) and lets you learn how iRacing works by keeping your hands where they belong — on the wheel and pedals.

Simple step-by-step guide

1. Open iRacing and go to Options > Controls.
2. Choose the device (keyboard, wheel button box, gamepad) under “Devices.”
3. Click the category (e.g., Views, Flags, Pit Commands) to narrow options.
4. Select the command you want to bind, click the “Press a key or button” box, then press the key/button.
5. Click Save or Apply, then test in a practice session and tweak as needed.

Common mistakes (and how to fix them)

• Binding too many functions to nearby keys: Use distinct, easy-to-reach keys for crucial commands (pit, headlight, look left/right). If you confuse inputs, unbind and reassign one at a time.
• Forgetting to select the correct device: Always check the active device dropdown — bindings are device-specific. If a button doesn’t work, switch the device and reassign.
• Not testing in practice: Don’t assume it works. Test in a private practice session so you can safely verify and adjust without race pressure.

When to ask for help

If you’re stuck — for example, a button registers twice, or a device won’t show up — pause and ask. iRacing’s forums and friendly iRacing Discord communities are great places to share screenshots and get quick, experienced feedback. Also consider a short video or photo of your control settings to help others diagnose issues.

FAQs

Q: Can I bind the same command to multiple keys?
A: Yes. You can assign multiple bindings for one command (e.g., pit to both a keyboard key and a button on your wheel). Use this sparingly to avoid accidental triggers.

Q: Will my key bindings carry across different cars?
A: Yes, bindings are global to your device in iRacing, but some advanced setups use car-specific profiles via external software or wheel firmware.

Q: How do I reset all hotkeys to default?
A: In the Controls menu there’s an option to restore defaults. Save a backup screenshot of your custom map before resetting if you might want to return.

Q: My wheel has many buttons — how should I decide what to map?
A: Prioritize pit commands, radio/voice, quick camera views, and essential toggles (ABS, traction control if used). Keep secondary items on less-accessible buttons.

Final takeaways: Start small — map 4–6 essential hotkeys first, test them in practice, and expand. Next session: bind pit commit, pit cancel, look left, and look right. You’ll feel more in control on lap two.