Installed red start and red M1/M2 buttons

[Lightfytr]

So I have installed the red start and red M1/M2 buttons. I wanted to share how easy the start button is. When you order the start button it comes with a piece of sticky putty. You just roll it in your hand, press it on your start button, create a small high point (like a cone) with the putty so you can have a firm grip. Then pull it straight off. It worked like a charm for me with no need to remove any panel. And you just press the new button right in its place.



The red M1/M2 buttons require more work but nothing crazy. Total change took about 20 minutes including wait time for the car computer to shutdown. I followed HKMP7 from the F80 page https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...1#post23162091

I also took yjypm advice to not remove the entire steering wheel. He is right, no need to remove the steering wheel but you do need to remove the airbag, very easy though.

So basically, I opened the trunk and waited 10 minutes for the car computer to shut off (this is what was recommended). Then disconnected the battery. then slid a flat tip screw driver into the 2 holes on the side of the steering wheel which release the airbag. Disconnect the airbag. Unscrew the 3 screws holding the trim in place. Then the screw holding the paddle shifter. Remove the screw from the back of the steering wheel where the paddle shifter is to allow the button harness to come off. Then the 3 screws holding the backplate which is were the buttons are located. They pop out from there, then reassemble. If it was the least bit complicated I would say it. Sure it's a bit nerve wrecking removing your airbag but it's straightforward. I love the way it looks.

[M5Dan]

I just did mine as well when I put in the new M Performance Alcantara and carbon fiber wheel

[Lightfytr]

Originally Posted by M5Dan

I just did mine as well when I put in the new M Performance Alcantara and carbon fiber wheel

I love your steering wheel!

[dsmclark]

Looks great! I did think about doing this but for me I feel it looks a bit unbalanced. Wonder how hard it would be to relocate the M2 button to the other side where the voice recognition button is? obviously would require a whole new button cover and yes I am slightly OCD...

[Somy6]

Oh, I like!!

Where did you purchase the red button from?

[Lightfytr]

Originally Posted by Somy6

Oh, I like!!

Where did you purchase the red button from?

The start button from amazon, the M1/M2 from IND.

[M5Dan]

Originally Posted by Lightfytr

I love your steering wheel!

Thanks! I wasn't sure about the blue stripe at the top of the wheel since my interior is red but it looks really good with the ///M tri color stitching. I'm loving the red iND M1 &M2 buttons keeps me from getting the F90

[RPiM5]

Dinmann also sells these.

[Somy6]

I remember watching a video about how you had to remove the dash panel part to change the button so I decided not to go for it.

Now, I'm interested for sure.

[Lightfytr]

Originally Posted by Somy6

I remember watching a video about how you had to remove the dash panel part to change the button so I decided not to go for it.

Now, I'm interested for sure.

I saw it too. But I found so many saying the putty worked, and since it came with it, before I decided I was going to return it I gave it a try and it popped right out. Too easy!

[bquicksilver]

I've gotta be honest, this "mod" really doesn't add anything outside flattery of imitation to an F90 owner. IMO it's a bit like putting a bunch of badges and bodywork on your 535.

Apologies for being the bearer of such opinions. Couldn't hold this one in.

[Craze]

I really think it looks tacky sorry

[Lightfytr]

Guys it’s ok. No offense taken. I’m doing what many others have done with many generations of vehicles. I couldn’t afford the latest model but I like a characteristic in it. It’s available as a mod, so I incorporate it to my liking. Everyday I walk into my garage I see my dream car. The mods are amazing to me. I do think the comparison to M badges on a 535 is definitely a stretch.

[MpowerMike]

Red start button is nice , I have one too but the m1/m2 buttons in red looks tacky. Now like somebody mentioned if you can replace the m2 button where the voice recognition button is it would look a lot better .