E46 (2000 model) Steering wheel and cruise control upgrade

[Dzenyika]

Hi guys

I desperately want to upgrade the steering wheel on my E46 (2000 model), including getting the cruise control function.

Can anyone tell me what to buy/where to go/how to do it?

Thank you in advance.

[drz]

What do you want to upgrade the wheel to (from what)?

What to buy, etc. will depend on what your goal is and what you're starting with.

Many people like upgrading to the three-spoke sport wheel from the regualr wheel. In that case, you will need the new steering wheel as well as the round airbag, since the one that comes with the non-sport steering wheel will not fit.

If you want to go from one type of sport wheel to another, (say from regular sport to m3 wheel, etc.) and already have the round airbag, then all you need is the new steering wheel. There are DIY directions around teh web detailing how to do it, or you can buy the Bentley Service manual for the E46 (which I absolutely recommend you do regardless if you don't already have a copy).

I am not exactly sure I understand what you mean by "getting cruise control function." If your car does not already have cruise control, then simply changing the steering wheel will not give you cruise control. However a quick google search led me to some discusions on other sites that indicates that some people have been able to achieve what you want by simply getting some parts from teh dealership and upgrading teh steering wheel.

Good luck.

[Dzenyika]

Thanks drz

I actually don't have a multi-function steering wheel at the moment - the car just has an ordinary "triangle" wheel with no buttons or anything on it.

My last car has steering wheel controls and I've seen a lot of these E46s with one so I'm hoping I can upgrade my wheel as well. I'm hoping BMW left room for such upgrades. It makes business sense for them and helps people like us who don't want to change a whole car just to get a multi-function steering wheel!

My car has got an automatic gearbox and I know the multi-function steering wheels (or some of them at least) come with the cruise control button so I'm hoping I can buy the necessary parts to get that installed as well.

[ashrafc]

I have a similar issue. My BMW 2006 323i does not have cruise control. I really wish there was a way I could equip it. Maybe turn some of those useless buttons on my steering wheel into cruise control buttons. That would change my life!