3231070 Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering spindle

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 323i, 2010 BMW 335i, 2010 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 323i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering spindle is separated from the steering gear/steering column, the steering-column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Move steering column adjuster to "top" and "extended" position
Remove trim panel for pedal assembly.
Secure upper section of steering spindle in footwell (can be pushed into steering column)
N51, N52, N53: Remove INTAKE FILTER HOUSING with air intake hose to intake manifold/system
N54: Remove intake filter housing with charge-air duct
E92 with N43: Remove intake filter housing

Release clamping screw (1) on steering spindle upper section (2).

Installation:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Replace clamping screw.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering column.

No kinking permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Clamping Screw On Steering Spindle Upper Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release clamping screw (1) on steering spindle lower section (2).

Move steering wheel to straight-ahead position and remove ignition key.

Detach steering spindle lower section in direction of arrow from steering gear.

Detach steering spindle upper section from steering column.

Installation:

Clean thread to remove all remnants of screw securing adhesive.

Fig 2: Identifying Clamping Screw On Steering Spindle Lower Section

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replace clamping screw.

Clamping screw must rest in groove of steering gear.

No kinking permitted!

Steering spindle can only be attached in one position on steering gear and steering column.

Tightening torque 32 31 1AZ .

After installation

Turn steering wheel in both directions to full lock. The airbag warning lamp must not light up in the process.
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment See 6131996 CARRYING OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT or 3210005 ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING /adjustment for active front steering.
Check directional stability of car.