32 31 070 Removing and installing / replacing lower section of steering shaft
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW X5, 2009 BMW X5, 2008 BMW X5, and 2007 BMW X5. 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. Secure steering wheel from turning!
Necessary preliminary work:
- M57T2: Remove acoustic cover
- M57T2 TOP: Remove intake port
- N52: Remove gaiter with resonator
- N54/N55: Remove charge air duct
- N62 (only E70): Pay attention to plug connection on coolant expansion tank and oil reservoir.
- Disconnect vacuum hose for brake servo
- Remove oil reservoir from body y and place to one side
- Remove expansion tank from body and place to one side. See 17 11 100 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING COOLANT EXPANSION TANK (N62TU/N52K) .
- Disconnect plug connection on heater water valve, remove water valve from body and place to one side. See 64 11 273 REPLACING WATER VALVE FOR HEATER .
Release clamping bolts (1). Push steering shaft (2) together and remove. Installation note: Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive. Replace clamping bolts.
Connect steering shaft first to steering box and then to steering shaft middle section. Clamping bolt must rest in steering box groove or steering shaft middle section. No subsequent retorquing permitted! Tightening torque, see 32 31 2AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .
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.