32 31 070 Removing And Installing/Replacing Lower Section Of Steering Shaft

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 135i, 2009 BMW 135i, and 2008 BMW 135i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering spindle is separated from the steering gear/steering column, the steering-column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Move steering column in "top" and "extended" position
Remove trim panel for pedal assembly. See REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING PANEL FOR PEDALS .
Secure upper section of steering spindle in footwell (can be pushed into steering column)
Remove sound generator. See REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SOUND GENERATOR .

Release clamping screw (1) on steering spindle upper section (2).

Installation:

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!

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Clamping Screw & Steering Spindle Upper Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release clamping screw (1) on steering spindle lower section (2).

Move steering wheel to straight-ahead position and remove ignition key.

Detach steering spindle lower section in direction of arrow from steering gear.

Detach lower section of steering spindle from steering column.

Installation:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Replace clamping screw.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering gear.

Steering spindle lower section can only be attached in one position on steering column and steering gear.

Fig 2: Releasing Clamping Screw On Steering Spindle Lower Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

After installation:

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 ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING / CARRYING OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .
Check directional stability of car