Thanks for the information, this is very helpful. SInce I have vinyl and I am not switching the whole interior to leather, it looks like we have to go aftermarket route. I snooped around and I saw quite a bit of models, but somehow they are all using the same-looking switch and pad. Is most of those kits made by Rostra?

How do I go about finding a good installer in the SF Bay Area (on the first glance it looks a little too much for a DIY project)?

Can I wire the aftermarket pads to the BMW OEM switches (I will have to replace the panel on the lower dashboard), or is it better to install aftermarket switches on the side of the seats?

Thank you very much for all the help,

Alex