Thrustmaster T248 Bus Simulator 21 Verified May 2026

Thrustmaster T248 Bus Simulator 21 Verified May 2026

Thrustmaster T248 Review for Bus Simulator 21

The Thrustmaster T248 is a versatile and feature-rich steering wheel designed for a wide range of games, including simulation titles like Bus Simulator 21. In this review, we'll explore how the T248 performs in Bus Simulator 21, and whether it's a worthwhile investment for fans of the game.

The Thrustmaster T248: Key Features

Before diving into the gameplay experience, let's take a look at the T248's key features:

Bus Simulator 21 Gameplay Experience

In Bus Simulator 21, the T248 provides a surprisingly immersive experience. The wheel's 1080° steering angle allows for precise control, making it easy to navigate through tight city streets and narrow roads. The wheel's adjustability also shines, as you can tweak sensitivity and dead zone settings to suit your driving style.

The T248's T-LCM technology delivers smooth and quiet operation, making it perfect for long gaming sessions. The wheel's 3-spoke design feels ergonomic and comfortable to hold, allowing you to focus on driving without fatigue.

Performance and Feedback

In terms of performance, the T248 provides accurate and responsive feedback that complements Bus Simulator 21's driving mechanics. The wheel's resistance and weighting feel well-suited for the game's variety of buses and road conditions.

One of the standout features of the T248 in Bus Simulator 21 is its ability to simulate realistic bus driving sensations. When navigating through uneven roads or navigating tight corners, the wheel provides a nuanced and immersive experience that draws you into the game.

Verdict and Recommendation

The Thrustmaster T248 is an excellent choice for Bus Simulator 21 players looking to enhance their gaming experience. Its compact design, adjustable settings, and smooth operation make it an ideal solution for both casual and serious gamers.

While the T248 may not be the most expensive or feature-rich steering wheel on the market, its value proposition lies in its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of games. If you're already invested in the Thrustmaster ecosystem or plan to explore other simulation titles, the T248 is a great option to consider. thrustmaster t248 bus simulator 21

Rating: 4.5/5

Pros:

Cons:

Recommendation:

If you're a Bus Simulator 21 player looking to upgrade your gaming experience, the Thrustmaster T248 is a solid choice. Its performance, adjustability, and compatibility make it an excellent value proposition for fans of simulation games. While it may have some limitations, the T248 is a great option to consider for anyone seeking a reliable and immersive steering wheel.

Here’s a useful, balanced review of the Thrustmaster T248 specifically for Bus Simulator 21 (and 21 Next Stop). It focuses on what matters for bus driving, not just racing.

Review Title: Great for racing, but is it worth it for city bus duty?

Verdict: 7/10 – Good, but overkill unless you also race.

Who is this for?

Part 1: The Compatibility Question – Does it Work?

The first question every bus enthusiast asks: Is the Thrustmaster T248 officially supported by Bus Simulator 21?

The short answer is Yes, with caveats.

Bus Simulator 21 (developed by Stillalive Studios and published by astragon) has native support for DirectInput devices. The T248 registers immediately. However, unlike in Assetto Corsa, the game does not have a "Thrustmaster T248" preset button.

Driver Setup: You must download the latest Thrustmaster firmware from the official support page. Out of the box, the T248 runs in "Mode C" (PC/RJ12). Ensure the switch on the wheel base is set to the PC position. Once connected, Bus Simulator 21 reads the wheel as a generic "Thrustmaster Combined" device.

The Magic of "T-4RM" Pedals: The T248 comes with the T3PM pedals (magnetic technology). This is crucial. Bus pedals are not like race car pedals. You don't stab the throttle; you caress it. The magnetic sensors provide 4096 resolution values, allowing you to feather the throttle to maintain 12 mph through a school zone. The progressive brake spring mimics the air brakes of a city bus—firm at the top, then heavy pressure for the locking point. Thrustmaster T248 Review for Bus Simulator 21 The

2. The Buttons: A Game Changer for Bus Sim

This is where the T248 shines for simulation games versus pure racing games.

Final Tip

If you already own a T248, go into the wheel’s internal settings (hold MODE + left paddle) and set the pedal mode to “Normal” (not “Linear” or “Advanced”). That softens the brake response for bus driving.

Bottom line: A capable wheel for BS21, but it’s a race car part dressed up for public transit duty.

Alex gripped the leather-wrapped rim Thrustmaster T248 , the digital display flickering with a subtle "READY." In the quiet cockpit of his virtual Citaro, the only sound was the faint hum of the city waking up. As he pulled out of the Seaside Valley depot, the hybrid drive system

of the T248 kicked in. Unlike the clunky gear-grinding of his old setup, the magnetic paddle shifters

snapped with a satisfying, tactile click as he toggled the speed limiter. He felt the weight of the bus through the force feedback

—a heavy, realistic resistance that made navigating tight European roundabouts a genuine workout for his forearms.

Rain began to smear the windshield. He reached for the mapped buttons on the wheel’s face, flicking the wipers on without taking his eyes off the road. Approaching the Astra Promenade stop, he eased onto the T3PM magnetic pedals

. The pressure-sensitive brake gave him the precision needed to stop perfectly aligned with the curb, sparing his virtual passengers from a jerky halt. A quick glance at the wheel’s built-in telemetry screen

confirmed his schedule: two minutes late. He checked his mirrors, toggled the doors, and felt the slight vibration through the column as the passengers boarded. With a final check of the wheel’s dual-position encoders

, he adjusted his retarder strength and pulled back into traffic. In the world of Bus Simulator 21

, he wasn't just playing a game; with the T248, he was finally punching the clock. Bus Simulator 21 or adjust your force feedback settings for a more realistic feel? Compact and lightweight design 240mm wheel diameter with

Here’s an informative post about using the Thrustmaster T248 with Bus Simulator 21.

Title: Thrustmaster T248 in Bus Simulator 21 – Is It a Good Match? (Hands-On Insights)

If you’re considering the Thrustmaster T248 for Bus Simulator 21, here’s what you need to know. The T248 is primarily marketed as a racing wheel, but it can work surprisingly well for bus driving – with a few important caveats.

Part 4: The Shifter Dilemma – Manual vs. Automatic

Modern buses are predominantly automatic (ZF EcoLife or Voith DIWA). However, Bus Simulator 21 includes manual mode for older coach models.

The T248 does not ship with an H-pattern shifter. You must buy the Thrustmaster TH8A shifter add-on.

Sequential Mode: You can map the TH8A to sequential mode for buses with push/pull gear selectors (often found on European models).

The Good (For Bus Simulator 21)

✅ Full 900° Steering Lock – Critical for buses. You can set it in the Thrustmaster control panel, and BS21 handles it smoothly. No “twitchy” racing feel.

✅ Strong, Adjustable Force Feedback – You actually feel the heavy steering of a bus at low speeds, and the wheel self-centers realistically. The on-the-fly dial (3 presets) lets you quickly lower FFB for long highway stretches.

✅ Magnetic Paddle Shifters – These feel great. If you’re driving an automatic or automated manual bus, they’re crisp for gear selection.

✅ Built-in RPM/LED Screen – Surprisingly useful. You can configure it to show speed or gear. In BS21, it helps you avoid redlining the diesel engine.

✅ Solid Desk Clamp – Bus Simulator sessions can be long. The T248’s clamp is heavy-duty and won’t shift during sharp turns.

4. Recommended Control Mapping (for PC/PS)

| Action | Suggested Button | |--------|------------------| | Turn signals left/right | Left / right paddle shifters | | Horn | Top left button | | Wipers | Top right button | | Door controls | D-pad left/right | | Kneeling / ramp | D-pad up | | Start/stop engine | A (PS: Cross) | | Parking brake | B (PS: Circle) |