If you are encountering a "fatal error" or stability issues while playing WheelMates, you are likely dealing with a synchronization mismatch or an outdated game client. The development team at Firevolt has released multiple hotfixes since launch to address progression blockers and connectivity issues. Ensuring both you and your co-op partner are running the exact same version of the game is the most critical step in resolving these technical interruptions.
Check Your Game Version
The most frequent cause of crashes and errors in WheelMates is a version mismatch between the host and the player joining via the Friend’s Pass. Because the game receives frequent hotfixes to address collision bugs and progression issues, both players must be fully updated.
To verify your version:
- Launch WheelMates or the Friend’s Pass version.
- Look at the bottom-left corner of the main menu screen.
- Compare the version number displayed there with your partner’s version number.
If the numbers do not match, both players should restart Steam to trigger any pending updates.
Resolving Connection and Login Errors
If you are unable to log in or experience a fatal error when attempting to connect to a lobby, the issue may be related to your local Steam client. Follow these steps to stabilize your connection:
- Restart Steam: Fully exit and restart the Steam application to ensure the latest patches are applied.
- Verify Game Files: If the error persists, use the Steam "Verify Integrity of Game Files" feature to ensure no installation files were corrupted during an update.
- Check for Hotfixes: The developers frequently release updates for specific issues, such as the recent fixes for the Backyard and Shed progression, or the NeuroVoids collision bug. Always ensure your client is on the latest build.
Reporting Persistent Bugs
If you continue to experience fatal errors despite being on the correct version, the developers request detailed feedback to help them reproduce the issue. When reporting a bug, provide the following information:
- Detailed Description: Explain exactly what you were doing in the game when the error occurred. Step-by-step instructions help the team identify the cause faster.
- Game Version: Always include the version number found on the main menu.
- Hardware Setup: Specify whether you are playing with a keyboard and mouse or a specific gamepad (e.g., DualSense or DualShock 4), as some input-related issues have been addressed in recent patches.
You can submit these reports directly to the developers via the official WheelMates Steam community discussions or their official Discord server.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get an error when joining a friend? This is usually caused by a version mismatch. Ensure both you and your partner have updated your games through Steam so that the version numbers in the bottom-left corner of the main menu match.
How do I fix controller-related crashes? Recent hotfixes have addressed issues with repeated D-pad inputs on DualSense and DualShock 4 controllers. If you are still experiencing crashes, ensure your game is updated to the latest version.
Where can I report a fatal error? The Firevolt team monitors the official WheelMates Steam community discussions and their Discord server. Please provide your game version and a detailed description of the steps leading to the crash.