32 33 000 Removing and installing/replacing steering wheel

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 BMW X5, 2005 BMW X5, and 2004 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove airbag unit, refer to DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE
Move steering wheel/wheels to straight-ahead position

Release screw.

Fig 1: Removing Steering Wheel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tightening torque, 32 33 1AZ. Refer to STEERING AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT - TIGHTENING TORQUES .

Unfasten plug connection.

Remove steering wheel.

Installation:

Move wheels to straight-ahead position.

Align steering wheel using marking to steering column and attach. The retaining pins must also appear in the openings in the steering wheel.

Fig 2: Aligning Steering Wheel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement only:

Remove cover with multifunction unit switch. Refer to 61 31 224 REPLACING SWITCH ON IMPACT CUSHION FOR LEFT OR RIGHT AIRBAG or 61 31 228 REPLACING SWITCH ON SPORT STEERING WHEEL (WITH CONNECTED AIRBAG UNIT) .