32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Return steering to straight-ahead drive setting and remove ignition key
Remove TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY .
Remove STEERING SPINDLE LOWER SECTION FROM STEERING COLUMN
Remove UPPER SECTION OF TRIM

Replacement only:

Remove FIXTURE FOR STEERING COLUMN STALK

Vehicles (up to 09/2005) with automatic transmissions:

Remove interlock cable (1) from steering lock positioning unit.

Disconnect plug connections (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connections And Interlock Cable

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version with electric steering column adjustment (build date up to 09/2004):

NOTE: As from 09/2004 the new steering column with a 6-pin plug connection and matching adapter lead will be supplied.

Installation:

Fit adapter lead between wiring harness and steering column.

Secure adapter lead to wiring harness.

Version with electric steering column adjustment:

Disconnect plug connection (3) from drive for electric steering column adjustment.

From 09/2005: Disconnect plug connection from electric STEERING COLUMN LOCK .

Vehicles (up to 09/2005) with automatic transmissions:

Remove interlock cable (1) from steering column.

Remove wiring harness (2) from steering column and place to one side.

Installation:

Replace ribbon cable from ignition starter switch to CAS control unit and secure with adhesive tape. See REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH and REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) CONTROL UNIT FOR CAR ACCESS SYSTEM .

Fig 2: Identifying Interlock Cable, Plug Connection And Wiring Harness

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark installation position of steering column.

Unfasten screws.

Tightening torque 32 31 6AZ .

Fig 3: Locating Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark installation position of steering column (2).

Release screws (1).

Remove steering column (2) towards rear.

Installation:

Insert steering column (2) through instrument panel and insert screws (1).

Align steering column (2) by way of markings and tighten down screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 6AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Remove IGNITION STARTER SWITCH
Remove RING ANTENNA
Remove lock cylinder

After installation:

Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT/ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING
Perform function check:
1. Check for ease of movement in overall adjustment range of steering column to adjoining components/wires
2. 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