32 31 070 Removing and installing / replacing lower section of steering spindle

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Move steering column in "top" and "extended" position
Remove trim panel for pedal assembly . See 51 45 185 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING PANEL FOR PEDALS .
Secure upper section of steering spindle in footwell (can be pushed into steering column)
N52: Remove intake filter housing with intake hose to intake manifold/system. See 13 71 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING INTAKE FILTER HOUSING (N51) or 13 72 001 REPLACING AIR FILTER ELEMENT (N52/N52K/N53) .

Release clamping bolt (1) on steering shaft upper part (2).

Installation:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Replace clamping bolt.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering column.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Tightening torque, see 32 31 1AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Fig 1: Locating Clamping Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release clamping bolt (1) on steering shaft lower part (2).

Move steering wheel to straight-ahead driving position and remove the ignition key.

Detach lower section of steering shaft from steering box in direction of arrow.

Detach lower section of steering shaft from steering column.

Installation:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Replace clamping screw.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering box.

Steering shaft can only be attached in one position on steering column and steering box.

Tightening torque, see 32 31 1AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Fig 2: Identifying Clamping Screw And Steering Spindle Upper Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Releasing Clamping Screw On Steering Spindle Lower Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.