CIC iDrive controller compatibility

[askjeeves]

My idrive controller died last time I replaced the battery in my car. I am looking to buy a replacement. But it is unclear to me if I need to purchase only the same model, or one listed as compatible on RealOEM with my model/VIN. Or if any similar year controller model, but from a different model car like e92 335/328, e70 x5, etc.. will also work?

RealOEM shows a different set of model numbers for different chassis codes and even models. But I can't imagine the idrive controller should be different for any model with the CIC system. Search results have been unclear on this. Anyone know for sure?

TIA!

[askjeeves]

To answer my own question, I installed a controller with a part number from an e9x 335 and it worked fine even though the part number is not listed as compatible for the m3 (on realoem).

[DavesZed]

Yes they are basically the same. Some have different, removable, surrounds (E89, E84 etc) but they all do the same job. As long as they have the 4 pin connection and not the 10 pin one.
The only other difference is the wording on the top left button, some say CD and some say MEDIA, but it's still a button that sends the exact same signal.