61 31 221 Removing and installing/replacing both multifunction steering wheel switches

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2019 MINI Cooper, 2018 MINI Cooper, 2017 MINI Cooper, 2016 MINI Cooper, and 2015 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove AIRBAG UNIT

Disassembly of the steering wheel is not necessary !

Removal:

Unscrew bolts (1) on rear of steering wheel.

Fig 1: Steering Wheel Bolts Location

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unclip the left switch (1) and disconnect the associated connector.

Unclip the right switch (3).

Feed out the ribbon cable (2) from the steering wheel and remove the switch (1, 3).

Fig 2: Ribbon Cable And Switch Location

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Installation:

NOTE: Latch mechanisms (1) on switch of multifunction steering wheel (4) must not be damaged or missing.

Screw points (2) on switch of multifunction steering wheel (4) must not be damaged or missing.

The ribbon cable (3) on the switch of the multifunction steering wheel must not be damaged or missing.

Fig 3: Latch Mechanisms On Switch Of Multifunction Steering Wheel

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Feed in the ribbon cable (2) into the steering wheel and clip in the right switch (3).

Connect associated connector to left switch (1).

Clip in the left switch (1).

NOTE: Ensure switch (1, 3) is correctly fitted.
Make sure the cable routing of the ribbon cable (2) is correct.

Fig 4: Ribbon Cable And Switch Location

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Installation note:

Make sure the cable routing (1) is correct!

The cable (1) must be routed between the ring (2) and the pin (3) as shown.

Attention !

Risk of damage !

Fig 5: Cable Ring And Pin Location

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The cable (1) must not be in contact with the pin (3)!

Tighten screws (1) on rear of steering wheel.

Tightening torque 61 31 6AZ .

Fig 6: Steering Wheel Bolts Location

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.