Multi-Function Steering Wheel - What does it do?

[NightFox]

I’m confused – what are the “multi functions” of the MFSW? As far as I can see from the Mini web site, it features controls for the ICE and cruise control, but does that mean on a manual gearbox you just get to control your stereo and have a few redundant buttons to push when you’re bored?

I have tried searching for this, but there’s about 10 squillion posts containing MFSW etc, and I’m sure that there must be more to it than this.

[Olly.]

It gives you stereo controls and cruise control.

I think it's the best £160 you'll spend

Olly

[mikeythemini]

The cruise control works on auto & manual cars as its not controlling the gearbox but the speed of the car

[NightFox]

Ah, thank you… so does the MFSW actually provide cruise control, or do you have to order this separately, and the wheel just provides a convenient alternative way to control it?

I never understood how you could have CC on a manual gearbox – I assume you still have to change gear to help it reach/maintain your selected speed? When I had it on an auto I used to love taking it up to 25mph, pressing the “resume” button and feeling the accelerator disappear from under my foot as it took itself to a preset 70mph. The novelty never wore off! Not really sure how this could work on a manual though…

[COOPERation]

The MFSW is money well spent, for the stereo controls alone...something that was not mentioned above and a very important point...the MFSW also steers the car.


...sorry...I'll leave now...

[MINIAC]

Quote: Originally Posted by NightFox

… so does the MFSW actually provide cruise control, or do you have to order this separately, and the wheel just provides a convenient alternative way to control it?

I never understood how you could have CC on a manual gearbox – I assume you still have to change gear to help it reach/maintain your selected speed? When I had it on an auto I used to love taking it up to 25mph, pressing the “resume” button and feeling the accelerator disappear from under my foot as it took itself to a preset 70mph. The novelty never wore off! Not really sure how this could work on a manual though…

The only way to get cruise control is to order the MFSW.

I only use cruise control on my 'S' to maintain a constant highway speed in 6th gear.

[digitaldave]

Two questions...

1) Can you get the MFSW fitted to an existing car?

2) Does it connect to the stereo via the sockets on the back of the head unit? I've got my iPod wired in to my Boost CD head unit, would I still be able to have this setup?

Thanks,

Dave.

[\\chrome//]

Quote: Originally Posted by COOPERation

Tsomething that was not mentioned above and a very important point...the MFSW also steers the car.


...sorry...I'll leave now...

pmsl

[RedWithWhiteStripes]

My only regret with my mini was not ordering the MFSW.
The reason i didn't was that the head unit i was planning on (and ultimately bought), was advertised with a remote-on lead.
Now being fairly inexperienced in all things car audio, i assumed this meant a remote control on a lead which attached to the steering wheel, and planned on using that instead.
How disappointed i was to find out that a remote-on lead merely tells the amp when to switch on and off.
I will be making amends in three years when i order a JCW MCS (convertible?) with a MFSW.

My advice... Get the MFSW!

[SteveM3]

Quote: Originally Posted by COOPERation

The MFSW is money well spent, for the stereo controls alone...something that was not mentioned above and a very important point...the MFSW also steers the car.

I don't have a MFSW, does this explain why I keep driving into things?

[dcfkan]

MFSW is definitely money well spent

For about 160 GBP (discounted price if you have Chilli Pack in UK, based on 2002 prices), you get cruise control and control of the stereo.

Ok, so there is a redundant switch, and it does not allow you to jump from one CD to another (when used with 6 CD changers), to me it is still good value for money, just for the cruise control alone

DK :apple:

[NightFox]

OK, I think you’ve convinced me to add this to my spec. Can I first though just make 100% absolutely, completely and utterly sure that I’ve got this right…

- Standard MCS has no cruise control

- If I pay £160 for the MFSW, this will also include cruise control at no extra cost

It just seems a funny way of marketing by Mini – not specifically listing cruise control as an option.

[NightFox]

Ordered it. Now please STOP talking me into adding things to my spec!

[dcfkan]

Quote: Originally Posted by NightFox

Ordered it. Now please STOP talking me into adding things to my spec!

Have a look at Apple's "comfort" spec if you are interested

Details can be found on her site

DK :apple:

[TT_Convert]

I have it, and whilst cruise is useful, it's really the volume control that makes it worth while.

Oh, and one un-answered question from the thread... if you have a manual and change gear, the cruise stops, and you have to press resume to get back up to speed.

Pete