32 31 070 Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering shaft

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering shaft is separated from the steering box/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 MECHANISM .
Secure upper part of steering shaft in footwell (can be pushed into steering column).
Remove N52, N54: INTAKE SILENCER HOUSING with air intake hose to the intake pipe/system.
Remove N54: SOUND GENERATOR .
Remove E88 with N43, N46: intake silencer housing.

Release clamping bolt (1) on steering shaft upper part (2).

Installation note:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolt

Clamping bolt must rest in groove of steering column.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Shaft Upper Part And Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release clamping bolt (1) on steering shaft lower part (2).

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

Detach lower section of steering shaft from steering box in direction of arrow.

Detach lower section of steering shaft from steering column.

Installation note:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolt

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering box.

Steering shaft can only be attached in one position on steering column and steering box.

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 2: Removing Steering Shaft Lower Part Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.