SMG paddle shift wheel
 

I have a 2001 x5 4.4 with sport package. Can I use my existing steering column with this paddle shift wheel or not? Don't want to hassle with returns if I know it will not be necessary? Anybody know anyone giving away 4.8's for the sake of goodwill?

You dont need to change the steering column at all!!! Only things you need are
1 SMG WHEEL
2 SMG Slip Ring
3 SMG wiring kit
4 Airbag but only if you dont have an existing round airbag.

i don't know anyone giving away a 4.8 but i'll take your 4.8 wheels off your hands ;)

LoL! just hoping someone out there was feeling generous. Does the smg slip ring come with the purchase of a steering wheel? If not, how much for this piece?

No the SMG slipring does not come with the wheel. price is around $108.00

what are the part numbers needed for the SMG retro for a 2004 4.8is? (I believe I can reuse the airbag) I have no idea what the cost would be for such a mod and whether the price/effort is worth it.

No you cannot reuse the airbag on the 4.8 as its a different shape.

Parts Details:
M SPORTS STRNG WHL,LEATH.F SEQU.TRANSM. SCHW./TITAN-SH.
PART NUMBER: 32342282222
(AIRBAG MAY BE REQUIRED IF YOU DO NOT HAVE EXISTING ROUND BAG. PART NUMBER: 32306757891)

SWITCH UNIT STEERING COLUMN/SLIPRING
PART NUMBER: 61318379091 Price: $108.00

You should price the Steering Wheel and Airbag at different dealers as I have found that a few vary in pricing. You can also source them on ebay or BMW wrecking/dismantling yards. The SMG wiring loom is either a simple DIY job or you can buy from mrpaddlesshift.com

Sudesh, thanks for the great writeups regarding the SMG paddle shift install. I have an '02x4.6is and the SMG paddle shift wheel is on the way. Do I still need this part number?
"SWITCH UNIT STEERING COLUMN/SLIPRING
PART NUMBER: 61318379091 Price: $108.00"

Hi! No problem at all. Yes you will need the SWITCH UNIT, this is the part that you connect your wiring kit too as the steering wheel. The SMG ones are basically the same as the one on your X, only differencs is the SMG switch has a 2 pin plug for, + and - on the SMG steering wheel.