Star Button Delete

[BMW0033]

I have a 2008 M3 with navigation upgraded to the CIC. Now, the Star Button is not needed. Wondering if anyone has done a delete for this button? I have not found any custom replacement trim pieces on the web/forum.

Any information/help is appreciated.

[Redd]

Take out the button, spray it black, put it back.

[BMW0033]

Originally Posted by Redd

Take out the button, spray it black, put it back.

I would like to have the button removed entirely. Spray painting would simply cover the symbol.

My scenario is fairly unique but I was hoping someone that has done the navigation upgrade had a similar dilemma. I will most likely need to keep the button for proper looks. Otherwise, I could get ambitious and have something 3D printed.

[Cyberdemon]

Originally Posted by BMW0033

I would like to have the button removed entirely. Spray painting would simply cover the symbol.

My scenario is fairly unique but I was hoping someone that has done the navigation upgrade had a similar dilemma. I will most likely need to keep the button for proper looks. Otherwise, I could get ambitious and have something 3D printed.

A 3d printed part even with a good finish is never going to quite match the rest of the plastic bits. Not to mention you have to properly model the part accurately, sand, prep, and not get it to look janky.

At that point, you would be better to take the original plastic piece, pop out the button, bondo the hole, sand it smooth, then paint and smooth it. But I still think that flat area will look crappy because its very hard to replicate the molded part texture that is there now.

[BMW0033]

Originally Posted by Cyberdemon

A 3d printed part even with a good finish is never going to quite match the rest of the plastic bits. Not to mention you have to properly model the part accurately, sand, prep, and not get it to look janky.

At that point, you would be better to take the original plastic piece, pop out the button, bondo the hole, sand it smooth, then paint and smooth it. But I still think that flat area will look crappy because its very hard to replicate the molded part texture that is there now.

I agree. My first thought was bondo but then my mind switched to 3D printing. I don't think either would get the quality I want.

Most likely will have to just live with the button there.

[Redd]

Originally Posted by Redd

Take out the button, spray it black, put it back.

This would still be the most factory looking option. Blank buttons abound in the M3 interior. A flat area on the wheel would look more weird compared to a blank button.

[BMW0033]

Thanks for all the replies. Sitting back and thinking about it I agree with painting it black. It would look weird with the entire button deleted. Glad I posted. Thanks.

[powerbait]

They sell a slick OEM cover. I had toyed with buying one and attempting to just cut out the M button space to emulate the E46 ZCPs.