32 31 211 Removing and installing/replacing universal joint with corrugated tubing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering shaft is separated from the steering box/steering shaft middle section, the steering column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Necessary preliminary work

Remove underbody protection . See 51 47 490 REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION or 51 47 491 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION at front and rear.
Remove stiffening plate (vehicles with N74, all-wheel drive vehicles with N63 and all F12).

Release screw (1) on corrugated tubing.

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ

Fig 1: Identifying Power Steering Pump Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Graphic N63 shows rear-wheel drive!

Release screws (1) from below.

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ

Slide universal joint with corrugated tubing upwards and remove.

Installation note:

Fig 2: Identifying Universal Joint Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Connect universal joint with corrugated tubing first to steering shaft and then to steering box.

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace screw.

Screw must rest in steering box groove or steering shaft middle section.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

NOTE: Picture shows F04!

Release screws (1) from below.

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ

Slide universal joint with corrugated tubing upwards and remove.

Installation note:

Connect universal joint with corrugated tubing first to steering shaft and then to steering box.

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Fig 3: Identifying Universal Joint With Corrugated Tubing Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replace screw.

Screw must rest in steering box groove or steering shaft middle section.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

After installation

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