Description & Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5, 2002 BMW X5, 2001 BMW X5, and 2000 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: When working on vehicles with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), use extreme caution around steering wheel or column. Work on components of the AIRBAG system should only be carried out with the battery disconnected, the negative terminal post covered and the plug connection of the cable leading to the gas generator disconnected. If only the battery is disconnected, it is absolutely essential to adhere to a waiting period of 5 seconds. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without disconnecting SRS control unit as air bag system may activate. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.

Steering column consists of a steering wheel (with AIRBAG), steering spindle and an anti-theft steering column lock/ignition switch. There is also an interlock cable to the gear shift. Steering columns may be telescopic and/or tilt.