AnimaTTor

Does anyone know where I can buy a multifunction steering wheel WITH the Tiptronic buttons? This is a 2002 part.

I have a 2003 A4 Cabriolet CVT a dearly miss not having tip buttons on the steering wheel (Audi stopped offering it to NA customers after 2002).

I've asked my Audi service people about ordering and instaling the part, but they warning it may cost thousands of dollars. Anyone have a cheaper alternative?

Below is a pic of my current wheel. Thanks in advance.


<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22060/menicab_03.jpg">

Hampshire_Cruiser_UK

I have the Tiptronic controls on my Cab, but personally on the odd ocassion I use the tiptronic function, I find it easier to use the stick as that is always to hand.

Sometimes I find it difficult to find the buttons, especially when the wheel is turned.

AnimaTTor

I used the tip buttons extensively on my 2000 A4. The buttons were nicely designed, giving a clear feel of whether you were shifting up or down. It was very enjoyable switching gears on the highway while keeping my hands on the wheel. And when I did a turn, a simple flick of the shifter did the trick.

I just drove a 2002 A4 CVT courtesy car with the tip buttons. They have been redesigned to be slicker and supposedly more ergonomic. Unfortunately, they feel strange because there is no actual tactical suggestion for up or down; just a center groove. It feels awkward using them, but I eventually got used to it and again found them indispensable.

I would think that the new design discouraged American drivers from using the buttons, eventually resulting in Audi pulling the feature all together.

Anyway, I'm still gonna spend the thousand or so dollars trying to get back the tip buttons, despite their inferior redesign.