KixBulwark Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 I have chosen to install ceramic controls on my automobile. Numerous posts include fragmented information, prompting me to compile my whole procedure from inception to completion to assist anyone seeking to undertake a similar endeavor. Although the normal silver-finish plastic controls are acceptable, the ceramic controls provide a more pleasant tactile experience and an appealing look. For some individuals, procuring the essential components for the exchange is financially burdensome and deemed unworthy; but, after some research, I managed to get excellent pricing on the donor controls and choose to proceed. I spent $120 plus delivery for the front temperature control device. I engaged in a resourceful search for F12/F13/F06 part outs and was lucky to locate a 2013 650i for this set of controls. I paid $175 for the back temperature control device, excluding delivery costs. I located this item on eBay in the UK, and it is expected to arrive around the middle to the end of the month. I acquired a ceramic NBT Evo knob locally from a buddy who first purchased it for his F10 M5 but opted to sell it since he needed to get the other controls and anticipated a lengthy process. I paid $325, which I deemed fair, considering the market price often ranges from $300 to $325 before to shipping expenses. I will persist in updating this primary article as I progress in including the remaining controls to consolidate all information in a one location and maintain readability. Procedure for Front Climate Control Replacement: The removal of the device is simple and requires only 5 minutes of preliminary work to access the four Torx T10 screws securing the unit. Provided you use caution to avoid breaking any clips, this task is achievable by everyone. I have provided a link to the TIS for this procedure here. While removing the two lower Torx T10 screws, I ensured that the cupholder lid remained closed to prevent the screws from falling into the center console; I advise you to do likewise. After extracting the device, separate the two plugs located on the rear using the inbuilt levers on the plugs. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KixBulwark Posted November 11 Author Share Posted November 11 I aimed to preserve my high gloss faceplate and the little distinction that the 'SYNC' button on my LCI vehicle is labeled 'ALL' on pre-LCI models, hence I wanted to maintain my SYNC button as well. Consequently, I would need to detach the radio buttons and temperature control knobs from the ceramic donor unit and integrate them into my current high-gloss faceplate. These are affixed to the faceplate by several little Torx T6 screws. Fortunately, the temperature control buttons situated between the knobs containing the 'ALL' and 'SYNC' buttons constitute a distinct button box, allowing for a seamless exchange. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KixBulwark Posted November 11 Author Share Posted November 11 After disassembling both units, reassembling the preferred ceramic knobs with my current temperature control buttons and faceplate was straightforward. All components aligned as intended. Subsequently, it included installing the replacement unit in the vehicle, and at completion, all functions operated as expected. Require an iDrive knob and M Performance Carbon Fiber DCT trim to complete the aesthetic at the front. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KixBulwark Posted November 11 Author Share Posted November 11 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darste Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 The minutiae are significant, and the efforts we exert... Excellent performance! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KixBulwark Posted November 11 Author Share Posted November 11 Indeed, they do, and thank you! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ouzo Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 Thank you for providing this information. I am aware this is an outdated post, but I am inquiring if it is feasible to interchange the faceplates. The donor ceramic controls I acquired for my vehicle were the appropriate LCI version; however, my faceplate was in far better condition, prompting me to simply exchange that component. It seems to be straightforward since I am not altering any buttons. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ouzo Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 I am now engaged in this task. My device is equipped with all the necessary buttons, so I only need to exchange the faceplates. The upper radio row was straightforward; just unscrew the T6, and it detaches effortlessly. Experiencing issues with the lower section. I removed the T6 screw at the top and attempted to disengage the clips at the bottom (one was broken), but it would not release. What am I overlooking? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KixBulwark Posted November 11 Author Share Posted November 11 Thoroughly verify that you have extracted all screws; I am very certain there were some obscured ones that remained fastened despite my belief that I had removed them all. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ouzo Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 Discovered them, thank you! I believed the screws in the center of the HVAC panel secured the control buttons, which they do, but I was unaware that they extended through to the panel cover as well. I detached them, and the panel came off easily; I am glad I did not attempt to use force. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bossyriver Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 This is an exemplary and well documented thread demonstrating what may be achieved without incurring substantial expenses. I will shortly do the same improvement. Impressive. London, United Kingdom Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
abovePleasant Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 Exasperating. That seems exceptional. It may be necessary to do this as well, amusingly. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
peonymuffler Posted November 11 Share Posted November 11 As the TIS is no longer accessible, I am apprehensive about causing damage. What is the method to reach the four T10s? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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