I actually dont count on anybody to know this however again in 2017 I used to be one of many first to get one of many new G01 X3 M40i fashions, and lots of people have been complaining a couple of steering wheel scarcity that induced these automobiles to return with out an M sport wheel for the primary half of the mannequin 12 months. For some purpose I took it upon myself to do an entire write up about discovering an equal wheel from an M5 or no matter else and swapping it. There was an entire spreadsheet and totally different half numbers based mostly on which options you had. For about $3k you can purchase the entire particular person elements and wiring and assemble one 
, or discover a suitable second hand one.
Nicely, Im at it once more, however this time Im not going to go to the difficulty of a giant easy methods to.
After having a loaner for just a few days I January I spotted that I missed having a spherical M sport steering wheel. I got here throughout one on-line that was clearly the identical era because the iX, you can inform from the button configuration. In reality, it seemed like an i7 sport wheel however with out the flat backside. I wasnt positive what it was however I believed Id give it a attempt! I’ve come to imagine it’s in all probability an X1 M sport wheel, however who is aware of for positive.
So I purchase it, seems nice. Besides I ignored one factor – the iX titanium bronze trim! I can inform simply by holding it up within the cockpit that the mismatched silver and titanium goes to drive me loopy. What to do properly clearly I must wrap or paint the silver so I’ve to disassemble the wheel.
This era of wheel is fascinating. Engineering sensible it appears quite a bit higher than the G collection. The vibration motor and all the things else is built-in into the button modules and thus the wiring is far cleaner. Moreover the entrance cowl is simply friction match, no screws required on the iX and solely two on the center spoke for the brand new wheel.
I get it torn down, and initially I believe Im going to carbon fiber wrap it. I spend about half-hour however its simply past my pay grade with the nooks and crannies. Oh properly, I’m going to the ironmongery shop and purchase just a few spray paints that appear to be they could be a superb match for titanium bronze. I received fortunate – Rustoleum satin nickel is the ticket! Im undecided it’s shut sufficient for contact ups instantly on the titanium trim however it’s actually shut, shut sufficient that I dont suppose anybody will know the distinction with it on the wheel.
I paint the trim, a number of mild coats, and whereas I’m ready for it to dry I make the snap determination to swap the button modules from my iX wheel. Theyre type of a fake glass moderately than plain matte, which matches the automobile higher. So I disassemble my iX wheel as properly. The steering wheel bolt that attaches to the steering column requires a Torx T60, by the way in which. And a big wrench, that factor is torqued on there! I used the breaker bar I’ve for the lugs once I do my seasonal tire swap.
Anyway, I get all of it painted and reassembled. Put in it on the automobile and took it for a drive. It was really a bit disorienting at first! I used to be so used to the hex wheel. Its nice although, I find it irresistible. Colour got here out completely and it seems wonderful. Examined the entire features and all of it works together with warmth, vibration, and hand sensing. The M60 ought to have include this wheel. I perceive they made design selections to make it totally different and stand out, however the M60 wants extra differentiation from the 50.
