32 31 092 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW X6 and 2010 BMW X6. 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:

Disconnect battery negative lead
Remove STEERING WHEEL
Remove steering column trims. See LOWER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM and UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM .
Move steering column into "extended" position
Replacement only: Remove STEERING-COLUMN SWITCH CLUSTER
Remove TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unclip wiring harness (2) from steering column.

Installation:

Replace damaged wiring harness holder.

Make sure wiring harness is in correct position.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection And Wiring Harness

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove air duct in footwell.

Release clamping screw (1) and slide splined shaft (2) into steering column.

Installation:

Do not damage splined shaft (2).

Make sure shim (3) is in correct position.

Recut thread.

Replace clamping screw.

Fig 2: Identifying Clamping Screw, Splined Shaft And Shim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of upper steering spindle.

No subsequent buckling permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying Plug Connection And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Secure steering column against falling out.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove steering column towards rear.

Installation:

When inserting steering column, make sure guide (1) is correctly fitted in instrument panel carrier.

Fig 5: Identifying Instrument Panel Carrier Guide

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT/ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING
Carry out normalization of electric steering column adjustment
Replacement only: Turn steering wheel in both directions to full lock. The airbag warning lamp must not light up in the process.
Check directional stability of car