32 31 090 Removing and installing/replacing steering column

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

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 3231003 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM or 3231020 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 Replacing steering spindle sleeve

Installation:

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

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

Installation:

Tightening torque, see 32 31 1AZ 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!

Fig 1: Identifying Clamping Screw On Steering Column

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

Installation:

Prior to installing, slide sleeve onto steering column.

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Column Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement

Modify airbag unit
Modify steering wheel
Modify fixture for steering column switch

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.
Check directional stability of car.