damn i really want to do this, but I NEVER use tiptroic, it doesnt react that fast....

Under hard acceleration even in manual mode the transmission won't upshift until the RPMs get to max shift point. Around town or under moderate acceleration it shifts very quickly. I use the paddles all the time---worst case lots more fun.

I just wanted to let everyone know that the wire you want to tap is the grey one, or at least it was on my US-spec 2006 4.8is. Also, make sure to tap it between the two sets of buttons where the wires run underneath the bottom of the steering wheel trim. The LEDs will come on whenever the rest of the dash is illuminated.

Hope that's helpful!

What was your source for the LEDs?

I got them off of eBay a couple years back when I had my 330ci. This isn't the exact seller, but the same type of LEDs I used. They come with the resistors pre-wired so all you have to do is hook them up to a 12v source.

Qty 10 LED 5mm Pre Wired 12 Volt LEDs 12V Amber USA | eBay

In additon, I used little black plastic collars to hold them in place, available at Radioshack.

http://www.fischerelektronik.de/file...gen/PM_LED.jpg


How they look from behind:

relentlessone,

Thanks for the link and the rest of the story.

Would these work on an 01 X5 w/ the heated steering wheel?

You would have to pick either heated steering wheel or paddles, can't have both. They use the same 2 pin connector. The good news is that if you wanted paddles you wouldn't need a new slip ring, just the paddles and wiring.

damn. I was so excited to do this as I LOVE using tiptronic... but I really prefer a heated sport steering wheel, so no dice.

Was just talking about this with a friend yesterday. I REALLY want to upgrade the wheel in my X and this is a must.