32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 18 other vehicles, including the 2015 BMW Alpina B7L xDrive, 2015 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive, 2015 BMW 750i xDrive, 2015 BMW 750Li xDrive, and 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: To avoid damaging the coil spring cassette, it is necessary to remove the steering wheel because of the absence of a steering column lock!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Move steering column into "extended" position.
Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
Remove steering wheel. See REMOVING STEERING WHEEL or REMOVING SPORT STEERING WHEEL .
Remove TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM .
Remove steering column trims. See REMOVING UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM and REMOVING LOWER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM .
Replacement only: Remove STEERING COLUMN CONTROL PANEL .

IMPORTANT: Mark installation position (1) of steering spindle in relation to steering column.

Release clamping screw (2) and pull off steering spindle in direction of arrow.

Installation note:

Do not damage toothed shaft.

Recut thread in steering spindle.

Replace clamping screw (2).

Clamping screw must rest in groove of upper steering spindle.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

Fig 1: Pulling Off Steering Spindle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unclip wiring harness (2) and lay to one side.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug Connection And Wiring Harness

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Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Column Screws

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Secure steering column against falling out.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Feed steering column upwards to remove.

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

If necessary, carry out NORMALIZATION of electric steering column adjustment.
Vehicles with active steering: When replacing the steering column, carry out the ACTIVE STEERING START-UP procedure!
Replacement only: Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.
Check directional stability of vehicle and straight-ahead position of the steering wheel.