32 33 001 Removing and installing/replacing steering wheel (from 03/2007)

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.

NOTE: Wheel/chassis alignment is not necessary after the steering wheel has been removed and installed or replaced.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove airbag unit .
Replacement only: Remove retaining plate for multifunction steering wheel switch . See 61 31 220 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING MULTIFUNCTION STEERING WHEEL SWITCHES (SPORT STEERING WHEEL, FROM 09/2005) .

Move wheels/steering wheel into straight-ahead position.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Release screw (2) and remove steering wheel.

Installation:

Make sure connecting lead(s) is/are correctly laid.

Tightening torque, see 32 33 1AZ in 32 33 STEERING WHEEL

Fig 1: Identifying Plug And Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Driver (1) must engage in opening (2).

Installation:

Align steering wheel using grooved toothing to steering column and attach.

Fig 2: Aligning Steering Wheel To Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Modify Lane Departure Warning motor electronics . See 61 31 238 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LANE DEPARTURE WARNING MOTOR ELECTRIC (STANDARD STEERING WHEEL) .