In the below image, there are extra buttons, that look like that are for a phone, how do you get those?

 

Order the multifunction wheel.

 

That's the multifunction steering wheel, affectionately known around here as the MFSW. You're looking at the 3-spoke which is available on later model years. When I bought my '03 it was an option with the "premium" package, or could be ordered seperately. I love mine, especially having the radio/cd controls on the wheel. I have the older 2-spoke model MFSW. There was some grumbling about the placement of the controls on the newer 3-spoke model (as well as the look...) but that seems to have died down.

So a here's a question to those of you with 3-spoke MFSWs -- how do you like it now that you've motored with it for a while?

 

The extra 2 buttons are indeed for a phone that can be used with a Bluetooth setup. Do a search for Bluetooth and you should find some discussions about it. :smile:

 

How do those phone buttons work? Is there another option or accessory u need to use a phone with them?

 

do all 01/05 and beyond built cars with the premium package have the phone buttons?

 

You need the Bluetooth car kit and a Bluetooth phone. Rumor has it that the current MINI Bluetooth kit works with the new wheel, but I haven't seen any confirmation yet

 

the extra buttons are indeed new for 1/05 build cars. they will operate a bluetooth handsfree kit available from mini. when you get a call, it will mute your radio and the call will be played through the cars speakers. The kit will not work however, if you decide to change the stock radio.

 

OIC, that is why I have seen MINI's without the extra buttons, they where made before Jan 05... ok...

So, if you swap out the HK head unit, but still use the HK amp, you loose that function? Bummer...

Doug