32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Return steering to straight-ahead drive setting and remove ignition key
• Remove trim panel for pedal assembly  . See 51 45 185 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING PANEL FOR PEDALS .
• Remove steering spindle lower section from steering column  
• Remove upper section of trim  

Replacement only: 

• Remove fixture for steering column stalk  . See 61 31 006 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FIXTURE FOR STEERING COLUMN STALK (FROM 09/2005).

Fig 1: Identifying Interlock Cable And Plug Connections

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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 And Interlock Cable

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: 

Replace ribbon cable from ignition starter switch to CAS control unit and secure with adhesive tape.

Mark installation position of steering column. Unfasten screws. Tightening torque 32 316AZ  . See 31 STEERING COLUMN .

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.

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Replacement: 

• Remove ignition starter switch  . See 61 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH .
• Remove ring antenna  . See 61 35 900 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING RING ANTENNA OF ELECTRONIC IMMOBILIZER .
• Remove lock cylinder

After installation: 

• Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering  . See 61 31 996 CARRYING OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .
• Perform function check:
  1. Check for ease of movement in overall adjustment range of steering column to adjoining components/wires
  2. II) 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