I'm on the way to buy a customized steering wheel for my MINI R56 (manual).
I haven't paddle shifters on my current steering wheel.
The new steering wheel has paddle shifters.

It is possible to remove them (without breaking something) and retain an OEM look?

Can I install my current control buttons and airbag without issues?

 

If they're mounted like a 1st gen wheel, the paddles are attached with one screw from the inside. It shouldn't be a problem to remove them, but you'll have big indentations on the back side of the wheel where the paddles were. You can make some covers to fill in the space if the unfinished area bothers you.

 

Yes, I could see that for 1st Gen on other forum. Thank you.
If it is the same for the 2nd Gen I would haven't problem with the spaces.
Surely I will check the aesthetic look from the outside since from the interior will be OK.

I hope some user can confirm the procedure for the R56...

 

My big question is:

the multifunction buttons cover the access to the paddle shifters screw.
the paddle shifters cover the access to the multifunction buttons screw.

How should I start removing the parts?

 

The R56 paddle shifters unscrew similar if not exactly like the R53.

I had mine apart a while back in a failed attempt
in vinyl wrapping the multi function button covers. Remove the airbag (don't unplug). There is one screw on each side on the back that needs to be removed.

 

Then, I need to remove the screws on the paddle shifters back (inside the steering wheel, with airbag removed).

That's the correct way?

 

Yes.

 

Thank you.

My steering wheel still is on the way.
I will report after deleting the paddle shifters