With the increasing number of technological features integrated into steering wheels, their complexity has risen significantly, along with the number of multifunctional buttons. Research shows that button positions significantly influence operational efficiency and distraction risks. This study investigates the impact of a multifunctional steering wheel button configuration on driving operational efficiency using Taiwan’s best-selling sport utility vehicle as a test and redesign sample. First, an operation experiment was conducted to determine the operation time and errors. Data from a total of 39 participants were collected and analyzed. Then, a subjective preference survey using an online questionnaire was conducted to collect the data. A total of 73 participants responded, providing the frequency of button use and their preferences in terms of operation types and positions. The redesigned steering wheel button layout developed based on the study’s findings will be validated in the future. The results of this study provide valuable information to improve multifunctional steering wheel designs and optimize human–machine interfaces in automotive vehicles, ultimately contributing to enhanced driving safety and operational convenience.