32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 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 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 61 31 006 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING 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 Interlock Cable, Wiring Harness And Plug Connection

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 61 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH and 61 35 015 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) CONTROL UNIT FOR CAR ACCESS SYSTEM .

Mark installation position of steering column.

Unfasten screws.

Tightening torque, see 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Fig 3: Locating Steering Column Screws

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 STEERING COLUMN .

Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column 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