Join hundreds of racers just like you! We love to help answer questions and race together.

How to Map Various Functions in Iracing

Learn how to map various functions in iRacing using a step-by-step guide for iRacing beginners and those new to iRacing — set controls fast, race with confidence.

If you’ve ever launched iRacing, seen a thousand settings, and froze, you’re not alone. Mapping controls feels technical, but with a calm, coach-like approach you can get comfortable fast. This article explains how to map various functions in iracing so you can control the car, not the menus.

how to map various functions in iracing

Quick answer: Mapping in iRacing means assigning hardware inputs (wheel buttons, pedals, keyboard, joystick) to simulator functions (brake bias, pit limiter, lights). Use the Controls menu, pick a device, select the action, press the button or axis, and save. It’s the same basic idea across devices and lets you race confidently.

Why this matters for beginners

If you’re new to iRacing, good control mapping removes distraction. Instead of fumbling in a corner, you’ll adjust brake bias, flash headlights, or toggle TC without thinking. Confusion often comes from many devices, duplicate mappings, and not knowing where to look — which is why a simple process helps you learn how iRacing works quickly.

Simple step-by-step guide

Open iRacing and go to Options → Controls → Edit Controls for the car you use.
Choose your device from the “Device” dropdown (wheel, pedals, keyboard, gamepad).
Find the action you want (e.g., “Pit Speed Limiter,” “Radio,” “Brake Bias”).
Click “Assign” (or the empty box) then press the button or move the axis you want to assign.
Test in practice session, remove duplicates, then Save to profile.

This same flow works for shift paddles, handbrakes, sequential shifters, and extra buttons on wheels. For axes (throttle, brake, wheel), set deadzones and saturation after assigning.

Common mistakes (and fixes)

Mistake: Assigning the same button to two functions. Fix: Use the “Assign” window search or clear conflicting assignments before saving.
Mistake: Axis reversed (e.g., throttle pulls backward). Fix: Use the “Invert Axis” checkbox or flip at the device driver level.
Mistake: Not saving per car. Fix: Save control profiles per car — settings can vary by vehicle.

Quick pro tips

Start small: map only essential controls (throttle, brake, steering, gear shifts, pit limiter, headlights).
Label physically: use tape or stickers on wheel buttons until memorized.
Use a modifiers button: a “shift” button expands available functions (press to access a second layer of controls).
Calibrate in OS/driver first: ensure your wheel and pedals report correctly before assigning.
Back up profiles: export control profiles once you’re happy.

FAQs

Q: Can I map things with a keyboard? A: Yes. Keyboard mappings work fine for beginners and are set the same way under Devices → Keyboard. They’re great for learning before buying a wheel.

Q: My wheel has many buttons — where should I start? A: Map essentials first (shifting, pit limiter, radio, headlights). Add advanced items (traction control, brake bias) once you’re comfortable.

Q: Do settings change by car? A: Some do. Brake feel, paddle shift behavior, and force feedback settings can be car-specific — save profiles per car.

Q: Where can I get help if stuck? A: iRacing forums, official docs, and iRacing Discord communities are friendly places to ask for screenshots and step-by-step help.

Final takeaways

Mapping controls turns a confusing menu into intuitive inputs. Next session: map three essentials (steer, throttle, brake), save, and do a five-minute practice run. Small, consistent changes are the fastest path from new to iRacing to comfortable racer.