32 31 070 Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering shaft

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.

IMPORTANT: Do not turn the steering wheel once the steering shaft has been detached from the steering box/steering column! If the lower section of the steering shaft is separated from the steering box/steering column, the steering column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Removal :

Release and remove nut (1).

Fig 1: Removing Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts (2) 1 rotation. (Do not remove!)

Remove cover (3).

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, graphic does not show side footwell trim.

Side footwell trim must not be disassembled!

Fig 2: Removing Steering Shaft Universal Joint From Steering Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1).

Swivel out bottom steering shaft universal joint (2) from steering gear.

Release clamping bolt (1).

Release steering shaft (2) from steering column.

Fig 3: Steering Shaft And Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation :

Fig 4: Steering Shaft And Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note :

When steering shaft is to be reused, clean both threads in steering shaft to remove all remnants of screw locking agent.
Clamping bolt must rest in groove of steering column.

Slide steering shaft (2) onto steering column.

Part : Replace screw (1).

Tighten screw (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

Fig 5: Installing Universal Joint Onto Steering Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Swivel universal joint (2) onto steering gear.

Part : Replace screw (1).

Tighten screw (1).

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ .

Fig 6: Cover And Cap Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Align cover (2).

Tighten cap nuts (1).

Required follow-up work :

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