61 31 228 Replacing switch on sport steering wheel (with connected airbag unit)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW 540i, 2002 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 540i, 2000 BMW 540i, and 1999 BMW 540i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove airbag unit. See DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE .

NOTE: There 2 screw variants:

Self-tapping screws
Screws with insert nuts (secure against falling out)

Release screws (1) and (2).

Unclip complete trim (4) in direction of arrow from fixtures (3).

Disconnect plug connection underneath.

Fig 1: Unclipping Complete Trim

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Detach switch on sport steering wheel (3) in direction of arrow from trim (2).

Installation:

Ensure gap dimension is uniform between trim (2) and switch on sport steering wheel (3).

Fig 2: Detaching Switch On Sport Steering Wheel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.