Designing an F1 Steering Wheel Using Fusion 360!

Hey there! My name is Joshua, and I'm an upcoming undergraduate at the University of Kansas, where I’m planning to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. I've always been passionate about designing and building things, especially when it comes to solving real-world problems.

Alongside that passion, I’ve developed a deep love for Formula 1. It’s a sport that blends speed, precision, and design innovation in ways that completely captivate me. While McLaren is my favorite team, and I admire drivers like Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, inspiration strikes from across the grid.

This project, a 3D model of the AMR23 steering wheel, is a tribute to the technical mastery behind Aston Martin’s 2023 season. I designed it specifically with 3D printing in mind: it’s split into multiple components to make the print process smoother and more accessible, whether you're using an FDM printer or something more advanced. Each piece fits together with simple alignment features, allowing for easy assembly without the need for complex tools. The build captures both the aesthetics and layout of the actual wheel while being optimized for 3D printing and display.

F1 gear and merchandise can be incredibly expensive for fans, especially high-quality replicas. Professional-grade F1 steering wheel models often cost thousands of dollars and are typically out of reach for most fans. That’s why I wanted to create something that balances authenticity and accessibility: a visually accurate replica that can be printed at home, shared freely, and enjoyed without the price barrier.

I hope this Instructable helps fellow fans and makers get a little closer to the thrill of Formula 1. Thanks for checking it out, and I hope you enjoy building or designing it as much as I did!

Materials Needed:

1. Laptop/Computer
2. CAD Software (Would highly recommend Fusion 360 for beginners and professionals! It's quite easy to learn, and the interface is extremely user-friendly)
3. Experience with CAD isn't required; however, it's extremely helpful!
4. Autodesk Account

Optional Materials:

1. A 3D Printer or Resin Printer (I used an Ender 3 V2; it's a great starting printer, however, there are better options on the market)
2. 3D Printer Filament or Resin
3. Super Glue

Link to Model:

1. Main Assembly

What Is Formula 1?:

Formula 1 (F1) is the highest class of international motorsport, featuring technologically advanced, open-wheel race cars competing on circuits around the world. Governed by the FIA, the sport blends precision engineering, driver skill, and strategic team management. Each season unfolds across diverse tracks, from tight street circuits to sweeping high-speed layouts, making it a true test of both human and machine.

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team:

The Aston Martin F1 team, based in Silverstone, UK, is known for its iconic British racing green livery and its growing ambitions in the sport. Rebranded in 2021, the team carries the prestige of the Aston Martin automotive legacy, fused with the innovation and drive of modern Formula 1 racing. Backed by significant investment and technical partnerships, Aston Martin has been climbing the competitive ladder in recent seasons.

Fernando Alonso Joins the Team:

In 2023, Aston Martin welcomed Fernando Alonso, a legendary Spanish driver and two-time Formula One World Champion. Renowned for his racecraft, consistency, and strategic mind, Alonso brought experience and renewed energy to the team. His arrival marked a turning point, with the car’s performance allowing him to contend regularly at the front of the grid.

2023 Season Highlights:

Aston Martin’s 2023 season was its most successful yet. The team scored 280 points and captured eight podium finishes, thanks in large part to Alonso’s stellar drives throughout the year. He finished fourth in the Drivers’ Championship, often challenging Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes on race day. The team’s early-season surge especially captured attention, showcasing the AMR23’s impressive development and hinting at a bright future.

To model the AMR23 steering wheel accurately, I gathered a wide range of reference photos from across the internet. Without access to official dimensions, I relied on visual cues and image comparisons to guide the placement of buttons, contours, and proportions. This helped ensure the final design remained true to the original while being practical for 3D printing and easy to assemble.

The main body of the steering wheel is composed of six parts: the front and back bodies, along with two grip sections that are each split into two components for easier printing and finishing. These pieces are the simplest to assemble: align them and glue them together directly without the need for complex fasteners or fitting systems. If you're 3D printing this model, I recommend using a multicolor print setup for the front body to highlight button outlines and interface elements. For the grips, printing in TPU with a high infill percentage provides a more tactile and realistic feel, closely resembling the texture of the actual wheel.

Included in this section are time-lapse videos that capture the full design journey of both the front and back body components in Fusion 360. Rather than focusing on technical specifics, such as dimensions and constraints, these clips provide a broad overview of how the components came together, from initial sketching to final modeling. They serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the general workflow behind designing these components, offering inspiration for replicating or adapting similar methods for their designs.

The shifter assembly consists of four key components: the shifter mount, top shifter, bottom shifter, and the shifter rod. These parts must be assembled in a precise sequence to allow the shifter components to function as intended. Begin by positioning the top and bottom shifters within the shifter mount, referencing the photos for accurate alignment and placement. Once secured, insert the shifter rod fully into the mount until it seats firmly. To finalize the assembly, apply adhesive only to the top end of the shifter rod. Make sure to prevent any glue from seeping downward, as this could obstruct the internal movement of the shifters. If you're 3D printing this model, using a metallic bronze or gold filament for the shifter rod will add a touch of realism to match the real-life counterpart.

Included in this section are time-lapse videos that capture the full design journey of the top shifter, bottom shifter, and shifter mount components in Fusion 360. Rather than focusing on technical specifics, such as dimensions and constraints, these clips provide a broad overview of how the components came together, from initial sketching to final modeling. They serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the general workflow behind designing these components, offering inspiration for replicating or adapting similar methods for their designs.

The clutch assembly consists of six components: left and right clutch paddles, corresponding clutch sensors, a clutch base, and two clutch rods. Proper sequencing is critical to ensure fluid motion and mechanical reliability. Start by aligning the clutch paddles with the clutch base, carefully matching the holes for precise orientation. Next, attach each clutch rod to its respective sensor and glue the pieces securely. Once cured, insert the clutch rod assemblies into the clutch paddle and base structure, making sure the rod is inserted fully. To finalize the assembly, apply adhesive only to the top end of the clutch rod. Make sure to prevent any glue from seeping downward, as this could obstruct the internal movement of the clutch paddles.

Included in this section are time-lapse videos that capture the full design journey of the clutch paddles, clutch sensors, and clutch base components in Fusion 360. Rather than focusing on technical specifics, such as dimensions and constraints, these clips provide a broad overview of how the components came together, from initial sketching to final modeling. They serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the general workflow behind designing these components, offering inspiration for replicating or adapting similar methods for their designs.

The quick release assembly consists of three components: the quick release base, the quick release, and the quick release ring. Assembly is straightforward: simply follow the reference photos to align and attach each part in sequence. Notably, the quick release ring is designed to function with a secure friction fit, so gluing it isn't strictly necessary unless additional stability is desired. If you're 3D printing this model, using a metallic bronze or gold filament for the quick-release component will add a touch of realism to match the real-life counterpart.

Included in this section are time-lapse videos that capture the full design journey of the quick release ring, quick release, and quick release base components in Fusion 360. Rather than focusing on technical specifics, such as dimensions and constraints, these clips provide a broad overview of how the components came together, from initial sketching to final modeling. They serve as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the general workflow behind designing these components, offering inspiration for replicating or adapting similar methods for their designs.

Once all of the subassemblies are complete, it's time to bring the entire steering wheel together. Use the video above as a reference to identify the exact positions for each component, as it makes placement much easier. Assembly is fairly straightforward: each of the smaller subassemblies is glued directly to the back body in its designated location. To simplify alignment, the parts include chamfers that guide them into their respective slots, helping ensure a clean, flush fit. Take your time during this step to keep everything balanced and symmetrical. The final model comes to life when everything clicks into place.

The following renders showcase the AMR23 steering wheel replica, modeled in Fusion 360. Designed for easy 3D printing and quick assembly, each component slots together cleanly, capturing the look and feel of Aston Martin’s 2023 design.

Materials Used (Render Workspace):

Carbon Fiber - Twill: Main Body, Shifters

Aluminum - Satin: Nuts, Bolt Heads

Plastic - Glossy: Buttons, Dials

Coating- Black Oxide: Bolt Heads, Clutch Base, Clutch Rod, Quick Release Base, Shifter Mount

Plastic - Matte (Black): Buttons, Clutch Paddles, Clutch Sensors

Rubber - Hard: Grips

Brass - Polished: Quick Release, Shifter Mount Rod

Polycarbonate - Clear: LED Lights

Bringing the AMR23 steering wheel model to life was one of the most creatively exciting projects I’ve ever taken on. From the moment I started digging into reference images to the final render in CAD, this build challenged me to design like an engineer and explore the intricacies of this sport. More than just a design exercise, it was a way to fuse two of my biggest passions: Formula 1 and 3D modeling.

For this Instructable, I also tried something new by incorporating time-lapse videos for each component to highlight how the model evolved. If that format worked well (or didn’t!), I’d love to hear what you think. I hope you enjoyed the Instructable, and feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions—feedback is always welcome!