32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Cars produced up to 12/2004 have a steering column with a 3- pin plug connection for electric steering column locking. Cars produced after this date have a 4-pin plug connection. Spare parts are offered for both variants.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove footwell heating duct
Remove steering column trims . See 32 31 003 Removing and installing/replacing upper section of steering column trim or 32 31 020 Removing and installing / replacing lower section of steering column trim .
Disconnect all plug connections at fixture for steering column stalk
Disconnect plug connection on electric steering column lock
Remove wiring harnesses from steering column
Slide sleeve for steering spindle on steering column upwards. This operation is described in 32 31 102 Replacing steering spindle sleeve .

Installation: Press sleeve into bulkhead and check installation position, correct if necessary.

Release clamping screw (1) on steering column (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Clamping Screw And Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation: Tightening torque, see 32 31 2AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Replace clamping screw.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering column. No kinking permitted!

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque, see 32 31 2AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Secure steering column against falling out.

Unfasten screws (2).

Tightening torque, see 32 31 2AZ in 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

Remove steering column towards rear.

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Prior to installing, slide sleeve onto steering column.

Replacement:

Modify airbag unit .
Modify steering wheel .
Modify fixture for steering column switch . See 61 31 006 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FIXTURE FOR STEERING COLUMN STALK .

After installation:

Replacement: Lock and unlock electric steering column lock and clear fault memory in Car Access System (CAS)
Replacement: Turn steering wheel in both directions to full lock. The airbag warning lamp must not light up in the process.
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering . See 32 10 005 Adjustment for active front steering and 61 31 996 CARRYING OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .
Check directional stability of car