I was @ the local BMW dealer yesterday(have my eye on a '02 Z3 3.0...), and noticed while looking @ the Z4s that they have radio controls on the steering wheel. Was this feature just added in '04? I don't recall reading that such an addition was made this year...I looked @ all of the new Z4s and everyone had it(2.5s & 3.0s) so I assume it is now standard...

If I was so inclined to spend the $ for a new steering wheel w/the radio buttons would there be difficulty wiring it to work? Or is it essentially plug & play?
Just curious, doubt I'll spend the $ for it, but it is one feature I would like to have...

Yes, it was a feature made standard on all '04's, wasn't available in 03. From what I understand, it's an add on thing for the existing steering wheel (you don't have to get a whole new wheel). The kit involves replacing the existing wheel spokes with the new ones w/controls, running wiring down the steering column, behind the dash and to the head unit. You have to get to/pull the radio (which involves removing the air vents above the radio, and then wiring to the head unit. From other boards people have said if you really know what you're doing, it's about two to three hours of work.

One more thing, I heard that this will only work on '03's that were produced after a certain date in '03 (not sure what date). Earlier production units wouldn't support the steering wheel controls. If you're serious about getting it, you should have you're dealer ensure it'll work on your car.

Very good 2 know, thanks.
May have to talk to my dealer about it next week.

Maybe it is just me, but I have a 03 Z4 w/o the radio controls on the steering wheel. In my opinion, I think the steering wheel is a little to small to have the radio buttons on it.