32 33 000 Removing and installing/replacing steering wheel

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2017 BMW X3, 2016 BMW X3, 2015 BMW X3, 2014 BMW X3, and 2013 BMW X3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Chassis/wheel alignment is not necessary after the steering wheel has been removed and installed or replaced.

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove AIRBAG UNIT .

Move wheels/steering wheel into straight-ahead driving position.

Disconnect plug connection.

Release screw (1) and remove steering wheel.

Tightening torque 32 33 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Screw Of Steering Wheel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Identifying Clock Spring On Steering Column Switch Cluster

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: There are clock springs installed with and without a mechanical anti-twist lock.
Clock spring without mechanical anti-twist lock: (recognizable at the inspection glass for the mark of the neutral position)

Do not twist the clock spring.
Check zero position of clock spring on steering column switch cluster.
Zero position is correct only when yellow mark (1) is clearly visible!

Installation note:

Before fitting steering wheel on steering column, ensure correct cable routing.

Align steering wheel by way of marking (1) to steering column marking (2) and attach.

Fig 3: Aligning Steering Wheel To Column Marking

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Modify design cover.
Modify multifunction steering wheel switch.
If necessary, modify steering wheel electronics module control unit.