32 31 090 Removing And Installing/Replacing Steering Column

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 32 31 090 Removing And Installing/Replacing Steering Column
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 47 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
IMPORTANT: To avoid damaging the coil spring cassette, it is necessary to remove the steering wheel because of the absence of a steering column lock!

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

IMPORTANT: Mark installation position (1) of steering spindle in relation to steering column.

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 .

Fig 1: Marking Installation Position Of Steering Shaft And Releasing Clamping Bolt
G06889684Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Unclip wiring harness (2) and lay to one side.

Fig 2: Plug Connection And Wiring Harness
G06889685Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque: 32 31 1AZ .

Fig 3: Screws Of Steering Column
G06889686Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Secure steering column against falling out.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque: 32 31 1AZ .

Feed steering column upwards to remove.

Fig 4: Screws Of Steering Column
G06889687Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.
RENDER: 1.0x

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.