32 31 090 Removing And Installing/Replacing Steering Column

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 BMW 550i and 2006 BMW 550i. 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 Interlock Cable And Plug Connections

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.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug Connection From Drive For Electric Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Mark installation position of steering column.

Unfasten screws.

Tightening torque: 32 31 6AZ . See STEERING COLUMN for specs.

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Column Installation Position

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 . See STEERING COLUMN for specs.

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column With Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

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