Paddle Shift Retrofit Harness for BMW

Since we created this conversion kit in 2008, it’s allowed enthusiasts to easily add OEM BMW paddle shifters to their E9x E8x BMW that did not come with paddles from the factory. This kit includes a custom time saving plug and play harness that enables factory paddle shift without cutting, splicing, programming, or timely dealership visits. Separately purchase a steering wheel, paddle shifters, and the necessary steering wheel controls (MF buttons) and plug in our harness. It’s that simple. The retrofit can be performed with common tools in about 2 hours at home by following our step-by-step printed install guide. The necessary OEM part numbers for this upgrade are included in the guide. Made in the USA with OEM BMW connectors.

A verified BMS order number is required for all tech support. We’re here to help!

Paddle shifters will add more fun, value, and performance to your BMW. Paddles shifters will enhance your driving experience and allow you to safely change gears without your hands ever leaving the steering wheel. Paddles are activated by hitting a paddle in 2007 and newer vehicles. Some pre-2007 models will need to switch the gear shifter into “S” mode to use paddles. The gear you are in is displayed in the instrument cluster. Read our FAQ and install the guide below.

This listing is for the plug & play paddle shift retrofit harness only. In addition to the harness, install guide, and tech support we provide you with the OEM BMW part numbers required to complete the retrofit. You will also need to separately purchase a paddle shift steering wheel (one with cutouts for paddles), the paddle shifters, and the exact steering wheel control module (buttons on the wheel) we list below. (1 QTY.) Steering Wheel Controls/Switch BMW part # 61319123287

If you use LCI paddles and modify them you may not need part # 61319123287. This only pertains to LCI modified paddles. SSG and E chassis DCT paddles (shown below) will require part # 61319123287.

The cost of the retrofit/upgrade is around $250-$400 USD total if you get everything besides the harness used. eBay has many pre-owned steering wheels with paddles already in them. This listing is for the plug & play harness only. 

SSG and E chassis DCT paddles (shown below) will require steering wheel controls part # 61319123287 to work. 

PLEASE READ BEFORE ORDERING: In addition to the harness, install guide, and tech support, we provide you with the OEM BMW part numbers required to complete the retrofit. After receiving our harness, you will also need to separately purchase a paddle shift steering wheel (one with cutouts for paddles), the paddle shifters, and the exact steering wheel control module (buttons on the wheel) we list in the install guide if using E chassis SSG or SMG paddles. We don’t sell OEM parts. They must be sourced elsewhere.

Common Tools Needed

• 10mm Wrench/socket to disconnect the battery 
• Large flat head screwdriver (center console and steering column cover removal)
• Medium flat head screwdriver (removing the airbag)
• 16mm socket with extension (steering wheel removal)
• Wire coat hanger or equivalent to pull the harness through the dash T20 & T30 torx tools (steering wheel parts)

For Steptronic Automatic Transmissions only. Your shifter must match the above to use our retrofit

Lowest cost option:

LCI Shift Paddles: Advanced Install: (Plug & Play harness, Paddles Require Soldering) 

+Up is on the right side & -Down is on the left side of the wheel requires modification to paddles on LCI and NON-LCI vehicles. How to modify LCI BMW paddles. If you use LCI paddles and modify them you wont need part # 61319123287. This only pertains to LCI modified paddles. 

SSG (Sport) Shift Paddles (100% Plug & Play)
+Up/ – Downshift is located on both sides of the wheel. Requires part # 61319123287.

M3 DCT Shift Paddles (100% Plug & Play) 
+Up is on the right side & -Down is on the left side of the wheel Require part # 61319123287.

INSTALL GUIDES  

• How to modify LCI BMW paddles

FAQ

What comes in the paddle shift retrofit kit?
This listing is for the plug & play wiring harness only
1.) 1 Qty. Custom plug & play paddle shift conversion harness
2.) Downloadable color install guide (download above for free)
3.) BMS tech support with a valid order number.

I installed everything and the paddles don’t work?
You need the (1 QTY.) Steering Wheel Controls/Switch BMW Part # 61319123287 (required for non-LCI paddles) without these the non-lci paddles won’t work. 

How much is this going to cost me?
That depends on if you get the parts new or used. The lowest it can generally be done for is $250-$400 total.
(1 QTY.) BMS Paddle Shift retrofit harness – $99.00
(1 QTY.) paddle-shift steering wheel (one with cutouts for paddles) $60.00 and Up.

(1 QTY.) LCI modified paddles. SSG and E chassis DCT paddles (shown below) will require part # 61319123287.
(2 QTY.) Paddles – $40 – $200.00 a pair.

Where do I get the other parts from?
Your local BMW dealership parts department, the internet, ebay.com is also a good worldwide source. Used complete wheels with paddles sell for as little as $100.00 We do not sell OEM parts, they must be purchased separately. There are many different paddle-shift BMW Steering Wheels on the market.

You will need to source your own steering wheel with the OEM part numbers we provide.

• BMW Sport Steering Wheel
• BMW M3 Thick Multicolor Stitching Steering Wheel
• BMW Performance Steering Wheel
• BMW Performance Steering Wheel (Non-Electronic)
• BMW M-Tech Thick Perforated Leather Steering Wheel
• Custom wheels are also available from other retailers.

Do I have to cut any wires?
No, the unit is plug & play. There are no modifications, messy wiring, cutting, or drilling.

Can I use LCI paddles not shown above?
Yes. See how to modify LCI BMW paddles to work with our retrofit or other earlier model cars: How to modify LCI BMW paddles