Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
32 31 090 Removing And Installing/Replacing Steering Column
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Return steering to straight-ahead drive setting and remove ignition key
- Remove TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL ASSEMBLY .
- Remove STEERING SPINDLE LOWER SECTION FROM STEERING COLUMN
- Remove UPPER SECTION OF TRIM
Replacement only:
Vehicles (up to 09/2005) with automatic transmissions:
Remove INTERLOCK CABLE (1) from steering lock positioning unit.
Disconnect plug connections (2).
Version with electric steering column adjustment (build date up to 09/2004):
As from 09/2004 the new steering column with a 6-pin plug connection and matching adapter lead will be supplied.
Installation:
Fit adapter lead between wiring harness and steering column. Secure adapter lead to wiring harness.
Version with electric steering column adjustment:
Disconnect plug connection (3) from drive for electric steering column adjustment.
From 09/2005: Disconnect plug connection from electric STEERING COLUMN LOCK .
Vehicles (up to 09/2005) with automatic transmissions:
Remove interlock cable (1) from steering column.
Remove wiring harness (2) from steering column and place to one side.
Installation:
Replace ribbon cable from ignition starter switch to CAS control unit and secure with adhesive tape. See REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING IGNITION STARTER SWITCH and REMOVING AND INSTALLING (REPLACING) CONTROL UNIT FOR CAR ACCESS SYSTEM
Mark installation position of steering column.
Unfasten screws.
Tightening torque: 32 31 6AZ . See STEERING COLUMN for specs.
Mark installation position of steering column (2).
Release screws (1).
Remove steering column (2) towards rear.
Installation:
Insert steering column (2) through instrument panel and insert screws (1).
Align steering column (2) by way of markings and tighten down screws (1).
Tightening torque: 32 31 6AZ . See STEERING COLUMN for specs.
Replacement:
- Remove IGNITION STARTER SWITCH
- Remove RING ANTENNA
- Remove LOCK CYLINDER
After installation:
- Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT /ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING
- Perform function check:
- Check for ease of movement in overall adjustment range of steering column to adjoining components/wires
- Turn steering wheel in both directions to full lock. The airbag warning lamp must not light up in the process.
- Check directional stability of car
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.