Remove lower part of steering shaft

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.

Preliminary work

Refer to REMOVING THE COVER OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY .
Refer to REMOVING THE CENTER UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Refer to REMOVING REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION .

Loosen the clamping bolt (1).
Pull down the bottom steering shaft (2) from the steering gear in arrow direction.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Pull the steering column with the bottom steering shaft out in arrow direction to its maximum length.
Loosen the clamping bolt (1).
Pull down the bottom steering shaft (2) from the steering column in arrow direction.
Thread out the steering shaft (2) and remove it.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.