32 31 090 Removing and installing / replacing complete steering column

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. 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 trim panel for pedal assembly. Refer to 51 45 185 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING TRIM FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY .
Remove steering spindle lower section from steering column. Refer to 32 31 070 REMOVING AND INSTALLING OR REPLACING LOWER SECTION OF STEERING SPINDLE .
Remove upper section of trim. Refer to 32 31 004 REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM .
Replacement only: Remove fixture for steering column stalk. Refer to 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. Refer to 32 32 170 REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING INTERLOCK CABLE (VEHICLES UP TO 09/2005) .

Disconnect plug connections (2).

Fig 1: Locating Interlock Cable

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.

Installation:

Replace ribbon cable from ignition starter switch to CAS control unit and secure with adhesive tape. Refer to 61 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH and 61 35 015 REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) CONTROL UNIT FOR CAR ACCESS SYSTEM .

Fig 2: Locating Plug Connection For Electric Steering Column Adjustment Drive

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Mark installation position of steering column.

Unfasten screws.

Tightening torque, (21.4 N.m.)

Fig 3: Identifying Installation Position Of Steering Column

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, (21.4 N.m.)

Replacement:

Remove ignition starter switch. Refer to 61 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH .
Remove ring antenna. Refer to 61 35 900 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING RING ANTENNA OF ELECTRONIC IMMOBILIZER .
Remove lock cylinder. Refer to 32 32 050 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING STEERING LOCK CYLINDER .

Fig 4: Removing Steering Column Towards Rear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After Installation:

Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering. Refer to 32 10 005 ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING and 61 31 996 CARRY OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .
Perform function check:

Check for ease of movement in overall adjustment range of steering column to adjoining components/wires
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.