32 31 211 Removing and installing/replacing universal joint with corrugated tubing

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 33 other vehicles, including the 2018 BMW M6, 2018 BMW 650i xDrive, 2018 BMW 650i, 2018 BMW 640i xDrive, and 2018 BMW 640i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering shaft is separated from the steering box/steering shaft middle section, the steering column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Remove REINFORCEMENT PLATE

Release screw (1) on corrugated tubing.

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Screw On Corrugated Tubing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) from below.

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ .

Slide universal joint with corrugated tubing upwards and remove.

Installation note:

Connect universal joint with corrugated tubing first to steering shaft and then to steering box.

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace screws.

Screw must rest in steering box groove or steering shaft middle section.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Shaft Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.