32 31 070 Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering shaft (N20/N26)

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: Plug Connection And Snap Fastener

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: Clamping Bolts Of Steering Shaft

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.

Fig 3: Steering Shaft Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

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.