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I'm considering replacing the 2-spoke steering wheel in my 2003 Cooper S with a 3-spoke FL wheel. My current wheel is not multi-function and I'm not trying to add that functionality. I'd prefer to buy a non-multi-function wheel but if a can't find one and buy a used multi-function 3-spoke wheel instead, can I replace the buttons and trim with the blank trim pieces from a non-MF wheel?
That wheel does look sharp. Maybe PM him in case he still gets email notices from this board. Would also start combing salvage yard sites and part-outs here on the Marketplace board for a whole one, maybe post a 'WTB' ad. https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/market/
Here's a plain Jane one on evilbay, minus the airbag / center module; a lot of them sold that way. https://www.ebay.com/itm/23515509171...cAAOSw3GthweZU
You'll need a replacement bag, part number 32306779258, good news being it looks like it's common to all Gen 1 cars including the R50s. So in theory you can transfer over your old one.
If you do need one not cheap but at least not unobtanium, available here along with those blank non-multi-function wheel plates at Outmotoring, possibly other vendors:
We have Gen 1 3 spoke wheels that are contoured, they will be in carbon fiber. Pictures coming soon. I am getting one on my R52 when they land. https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-part...ior-steering/\ Then use those blank pads off a used wheel, or get them new still but have to come from germany. And of course get a used newer 7/2004+ airbag. Just make sure you disconnect the battery before you swap.
@ECS Tuning Thanks for the information and links. This probably puts me squarely in the minority but I'm not a big carbon fiber fan. Would prefer an all leather wheel.
Unless you love the trans am DTM style flat bottoms (I don’t) look for a nice standard 3 spoke and bag.
it would cost nothing to have mfl if you buy a full unit, or you can then get the blanks from a base base model used or possibly even ecs tuning by pn.
if you like the flat bottoms there’s a guy (Spain?) on eBay that has several of them iirc.
Sorry for the delay in replying -- out of town for a few days. My car doesn't currently have multi-function. I didn't think it could be added by simply putting in a multi-function wheel. Am I wrong? I'm not sure what mf would do for me since the car doesn't have cruise control and I rarely use the radio (listening to the supercharger is too much fun).
