32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

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: 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 32 33 010 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SPORT STEERING WHEEL or 32 33 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING STEERING WHEEL .
Remove trim panel for pedal mechanism . See 51 45 184 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM (ECE ONLY) or 51 45 184 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM (US ONLY) .
Remove steering column trims . See 32 31 003 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM or 32 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING 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.

Fig 1: Pulling Steering Spindle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

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

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Column Plug Connection And Wiring Harness

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ.

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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