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

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW 328i xDrive, 2016 BMW 328d xDrive, 2015 BMW 328i xDrive, 2015 BMW 328d xDrive, and 2014 BMW 328i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Do not turn the steering wheel once the steering shaft has been detached from the steering box/steering column! 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:

REMOVE trim panel for pedal mechanism
Move steering column in "top" and "retracted" position.

Unclip line (1).

Unfasten plug connection (2) and disconnect.

Unlock snap fastener (3) and pull off charge air routing from throttle body before laying to one side.

Fig 1: Tank Ventilation Line, Snap Fastener And Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release clamping bolts (1) for steering shaft on the steering gear from the engine compartment.

Installation note:

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolts.

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Shaft Clamping Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull down steering shaft until clamping bolt (1) is accessible with tool (1/4" ratchet, extension and Torx bit 10).

Release clamping bolt (1) and remove steering shaft.

Installation note:

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolts.

Counter-hold the steering shaft in the passenger compartment on the steering column when sliding the universal joint onto the steering column!

Connect steering spindle first to steering column and then to steering gear.

Clamping bolt must rest in groove of steering box or steering column.

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Shaft Clamping Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

After installation:

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