Remove steering column

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2025 BMW M4, 2024 BMW M4, 2023 BMW M4, 2022 BMW M4, and 2021 BMW M4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Pyrotechnic components .
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!

All work on pyrotechnic parts may be carried out by technically experienced and appropriately trained personnel only.
Replace any damaged part or ones that have been dropped.
For additional information see: 72 00 SAFETY REGULATIONS ON HANDLING COMPONENTS WITH GAS GENERATORS .

WARNING: Working on 12 V electrical system .
Risk of short circuits! Risk of fire!

Make sure that there is no charger connected to the jump start terminal in the engine compartment.
Detach battery ground lead from battery.
For auxiliary batteries: Detach battery minus cables from all auxiliary batteries.

WARNING: Airbag unit .
Danger! Immobilization period-threatening injuries!

Before performing any work on the airbag, always disconnect the battery ground lead from the battery.
Airbag unit may only be set down with the cushion (airbag itself) facing upwards.
For additional information see: 72 00 SAFETY REGULATIONS ON HANDLING COMPONENTS WITH GAS GENERATORS

NOTE: RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL) .
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column .

After separating the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) from the steering gear or from the steering column, secure the steering wheel against twisting.

NOTE: RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to battery terminal, the safety battery terminal or the intelligent battery sensor (IBS) .
Damaged battery terminals can lead to malfunctions or vehicle electrical system faults .

Detach battery terminal from battery pole by carefully shifting to and fro. Do not pry off using a tool.

NOTE: TECHNICAL INFORMATION
The steering wheel and horn plate must be replaced if the airbag unit has been deployed.
Check all steering wheel attachments (such as switches, cover, shift paddles, wiring harness) for damage and renew if necessary!
For additional information see: 72 12... PROCEDURE AFTER AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AS RESULT OF AN ACCIDENT

NOTE: TECHNICAL INFORMATION
After replacing the airbag unit (M Sport steering wheel) or possibly converting the standard steering wheel and airbag unit on the M Sport steering wheel, a software update or a programming/coding via ISTA must be performed.

Preliminary work

Refer to DISCONNECTING ALL BATTERY GROUND LEADS .
Refer to ADJUSTING THE STEERING COLUMN POSITION .
Refer to REMOVING AIRBAG UNIT (M SPORT STEERING WHEEL) .
Refer to REMOVING THE M SPORT STEERING WHEEL .
Refer to REMOVING STEERING COLUMN SHROUD UPPER SECTION .
Refer to REMOVING STEERING COLUMN SHROUD LOWER SECTION .
Refer to REMOVING THE STEERING COLUMN SWITCH CLUSTER (SZL) .
Refer to REMOVING THE TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY .
Refer to REMOVING SUSPENSION STRUT BRACE .
Refer to REMOVING THE COVER FOR THE DME CONTROL UNIT .
Refer to REMOVING THE DME CONTROL UNIT .
Refer to REMOVING THE INTEGRATED SUPPLY MODULE (PDM) PARTIALLY .
Refer to REMOVING THE CONTROL UNIT HOLDER .
Refer to UNCLIPPING THE COOLANT LINE .
Refer to REMOVING LOWER PART OF STEERING SHAFT .

Loosen the nuts (1) on the steering column (2) of the footwell.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Secure component against falling.

Loosen the nuts (1) on the steering column (2) of the footwell.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull out the steering column (1) in arrow direction a little.
Release the wiring harness with the holders (2) from the steering column (1).
Feed out and remove the high steering column (1).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.