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:
- Move steering column into "extended" position.
- Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
- Remove steering wheel . See 32 33 010 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SPORT STEERING WHEEL , 32 33 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING STEERING WHEEL or 32 33 010 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING SPORT STEERING WHEEL
- Remove TRIM PANEL FOR PEDAL MECHANISM .
- Remove steering column trims . See 32 31 003 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING UPPER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM or 32 31 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING LOWER SECTION OF STEERING COLUMN TRIM .
- Replacement only: Remove STEERING COLUMN CONTROL PANEL .
Release clamping screw (2) and pull off steering spindle in direction of arrow.
Installation note:
Do not damage toothed shaft.
Recut thread in steering spindle.
Replace clamping screw (2).
Clamping screw must rest in groove of upper steering spindle.
No subsequent retorquing permitted!
Tightening torque: 32 31 3AZ .
Disconnect plug connection (1).
Unclip wiring harness (2) and lay to one side.
Release screws (1).
Tightening torque: 32 31 1AZ .
Secure steering column against falling out.
Release screws (1).
Tightening torque: 32 31 1AZ .
Feed steering column upwards to remove.
After installation:
- If necessary, carry out NORMALIZATION of electric steering column adjustment.
- Vehicles with active steering: When replacing the steering column, carry out the ACTIVE STEERING START-UP procedure!
- Replacement only: Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.
- Check directional stability of vehicle and straight-ahead position of the steering wheel.
NO RELATED
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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.