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Steering Columns BMW X5 E53

Steering Column 49 illustrations ~2509 words

IDENTIFICATION

Model (Chassis Code)Engine Size (Code)
2000-2002
X5 (E53)4.4L (M62)
2001-2002
X5 (E53)3.0L (M54)
2002
X5 (E53)4.6L (M62)

2000-2002 CHASSIS & ENGINE IDENTIFICATION

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

WARNINGWhen working on vehicles with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), use extreme caution around steering wheel or column. Work on components of the AIRBAG system should only be carried out with the battery disconnected, the negative terminal post covered and the plug connection of the cable leading to the gas generator disconnected. If only the battery is disconnected, it is absolutely essential to adhere to a waiting period of 5 seconds. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without disconnecting SRS control unit as air bag system may activate. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.

Steering column consists of a steering wheel (with AIRBAG), steering spindle and an anti-theft steering column lock/ignition switch. There is also an interlock cable to the gear shift. Steering columns may be telescopic and/or tilt.

SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

Observe the following precautions when working on or around AIRBAG systems

  1. When working around steering column and before any repairs are performed, disable SRS. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
  2. Always ensure the radio is off before disconnecting battery. This will prevent damage to radio microprocessor.
  3. Before performing any body damage straightening or electrical arc-welding, disable SRS. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. Disconnect front sensors.
  4. Wait at least 5 seconds after SRS is disabled before servicing system as system maintains SRS voltage at least that long. Servicing SRS before waiting period may cause accidental AIRBAG deployment and personal injury.
  5. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a deployed AIRBAG module. AIRBAG module may contain sodium hydroxide deposits which are irritating to the skin.
  6. Never use any SRS component that has been dropped from 3 feet or more.
  7. To avoid AIRBAG deployment when trouble shooting SRS, DO NOT use self-powered electrical test equipment such as battery-powered or AC-powered voltmeter, ohmmeter, etc. DO NOT perform any repair on any portion of SRS wiring circuit.
  8. Always handle AIRBAG module with trim cover away from your body. Always place AIRBAG module on workbench with trim cover up, away from loose objects.
  9. Never expose SRS components to temperatures greater than 212°F (100°C).
  10. Never expose any SRS system components to cleaning agents such as solvents, gasoline, lye, etc.

STEERING WHEEL ANGLE

  1. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-wheel) under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
  2. Remove marking on steering spindle with abrasive paper.
  3. Attach steering wheel in straight ahead position.
  4. Apply new marking with center punch on steering spindle, flush with marking on steering wheel.
  5. Install steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-wheel) under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
  6. Carry out steering angle offset. See Diagnostic Information System (DIS).

AIRBAG MODULES

For procedures, see appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.

Removal & Installation

  1. Lift off shift lever cover and unfasten interlock cable from shift tower. Connect new interlock cable to old cable with wire or a cord.
  2. Unfasten screws. (Scheme 1)
  3. Disconnect plugs from gong and On-Board-Diagnosis.
  4. Remove lower section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  5. Unfasten interlock cable on steering lock and remove, pulling in new interlock cable at the same time. (Scheme 2)
  6. To install, reverse removal procedure. After installation, check interlock function.

Scheme 1

Scheme 1
Scheme 1

Scheme 2

Scheme 2
Scheme 2

STEERING ANGLE SENSOR

CAUTIONThe steering angle sensor must be coded if it is replaced. A steering angle offset for Electronic Damper Control/Dynamic Stability Control must then be carried out. Refer to BMW diagnosis program.
CAUTIONTo avoid damaging the contact ring in the steering column when the steering wheel is turned, move steering wheel to straight ahead position and remove ignition key.
  1. Disconnect battery.
  2. Unfasten screws and disconnect gong plug and On-Board Diagnosis socket and remove trim. (Scheme 1)
  3. Remove clamping bolt. Press down on steering spindle. (Scheme 3)
  4. Unfasten cable connector. Remove steering angle sensor (1) from steering spindle. (Scheme 4)
  5. To install, reverse removal procedure. Pin for securing rotation (2) must engage in steering angle sensor (1). (Scheme 4)
  6. Secure cable with cable tie so that it is not tensioned when steering column is extended and retracted.
  7. Clamping screw must be located in retaining groove of upper steering spindle. Replace self-locking nut and tighten to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).

Scheme 3

Scheme 3
Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 4
Scheme 4

Removal

  1. Disconnect battery.
  2. Unfasten screws, disconnect plug from gong and On-Board Diagnosis and remove instrument panel trim. (Scheme 1)
  3. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-wheel).
  4. Remove lower section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  5. Remove upper section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (UPPER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  6. Take off collar (1). (Scheme 5)
  7. Remove cable for interlock from steering lock if necessary. (Scheme 2)
  8. Unfasten screws, detach plug and remove stalk fixture for steering column. (Scheme 6)
  9. Remove clamping bolt. Press down on steering spindle. (Scheme 7)
  10. Loosen shear off screw with chisel or mill off screw head. (Scheme 8)
  11. Unfasten all lines leading to steering column from their respective brackets. Release screw and unlock connector from ignition starter switch and remove. (Scheme 9)
  12. Unfasten screws (3) for mechanical adjustment. (Scheme 10)
  13. Unfasten screws on support tube. Remove steering column. (Scheme 11)

Scheme 5

Scheme 5
Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 6
Scheme 6

Scheme 7

Scheme 7
Scheme 7

Scheme 8

Scheme 8
Scheme 8

Scheme 9

Scheme 9
Scheme 9

Scheme 10

Scheme 10
Scheme 10

Scheme 11

Scheme 11
Scheme 11

Installation

  1. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure installation of screw (1), spacer tube (2), guide bush (3) and shim (4). (Scheme 11)
  2. Install bracket (1), spacer (2), bolt (3), plastic guide (inner surfaces lightly greased) (4) and washer (5). Replace self-locking nut (6). (Scheme 10) Tighten nut to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  3. Fit spacer tube. Tighten new shear off screws until screw heads shears off. (Scheme 8)
  4. Ensure clamping screw is located in retaining groove of steering spindle. (Scheme 7) Replace self-locking nut and tighten to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  5. When installing collar, check position of collar (1) with regard to snap ring (2). (Scheme 5)
  6. After installation, carry out steering angle offset for Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). See BMW Diagnosis Program.
  7. Check for freedom of movement over entire adjustment range of steering column to adjoining components and wires.
  8. Carry out mechanical (lock cylinder, steering lock, interlock) and electrical (ignition, radio etc.) function checks.

STEERING COLUMN ADJUSTER GEAR MOTOR

Procedure is the same as replacing the steering column adjuster shaft. See STEERING COLUMN ADJUSTER SHAFT .

Note. To illustrate more clearly, operation is shown on a removed steering column.

  1. Remove lower section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  2. Unfasten screws and disconnect plugs from gong and On-Board-Diagnosis. Remove instrument panel trim. (Scheme 1)
  3. Unfasten screws and twist plug out of mount and disconnect. Remove gear motor. (Scheme 12)
  4. Remove shaft. (Scheme 13)
  5. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Scheme 12

Scheme 12
Scheme 12

Scheme 13

Scheme 13
Scheme 13
  1. Remove lower section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  2. Remove upper section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (UPPER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  3. Disconnect torsion springs (8) from both sides. Slacken nut (1). Remove axial grooved ball bearing (2) and clamping disc (3). Remove retainer (4). (Scheme 14)
  4. Use special tool (32 1 200/204) to force clamping fixture (9) out of adjusting lever (5). Grip drive of special tool with open end wrench. (Scheme 15)
  5. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  6. Press clamping fixture (9) into adjusting lever (5) with special tools (32 1 200). Adjusting lever points towards steering lock and square section on clamping fixture must be inserted in long slot in steering column tube. (Scheme 16)
  7. Fit retainer (4), clamping disc (3) and axial grooved ball pivot (2). Connect torsion spring (8) to both sides. Replace nut (1). (Scheme 14)
  8. Tighten nut (1) to specification with adjustment lever in clamped position. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).

Scheme 14

Scheme 14
Scheme 14

Scheme 15

Scheme 15
Scheme 15

Scheme 16

Scheme 16
Scheme 16
  1. Extend steering wheel setting up to stop. Unfasten screws and pull off lower section of steering column trim towards bottom. (Scheme 17)
  2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Clip leather boot into trim. (Scheme 18)

Scheme 17

Scheme 17
Scheme 17

Scheme 18

Scheme 18
Scheme 18
  1. Move steering column to "bottom" and "extended" position.
  2. Release screw. Pull upper section of steering column trim upwards. (Scheme 19)
  3. Remove cap (1). Release screws and remove upper section of steering column trim. (Scheme 20)
  4. To install, reverse removal procedure. Insert hook (1) in mounts (2). (Scheme 21)
  5. Fit new expanding nut. (Scheme 19)

Scheme 19

Scheme 19
Scheme 19

Scheme 20

Scheme 20
Scheme 20

Scheme 21

Scheme 21
Scheme 21
  1. Remove upper steering spindle bearing. See «STEERING SPINDLE BEARING (UPPER)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-spindle-bearing-upper).
  2. Remove ring antenna.
  3. Remove cable for interlock if necessary. See «INTERLOCK CABLE»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  4. Unfasten screw and lift off bracket for wiring harness. Unlock connector from ignition starter switch and remove. (Scheme 9)
  5. Unfasten shear off screw with tool, e.g. chisel. Remove plate (1) and steering lock (2). (Scheme 22)
  6. Remove lock cylinder. See «STEERING LOCK CYLINDER»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  7. Remove retaining paint, unscrew and remove grub screws and fit ignition starter switch to new steering lock. Secure headless screws with varnish. (Scheme 23)
  8. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  9. Install lock cylinder in new steering lock.
  10. Tighten new shear off screws to shearing point.
  11. After assembly, check all functions of ignition starter switch such as indicator lights, wipers etc.

Scheme 22

Scheme 22
Scheme 22

Scheme 23

Scheme 23
Scheme 23
  1. Remove ring antenna.
  2. With ignition lock key (use workshop key), turn lock to position "R" (radio, windshield wipers, blower). Press special tool (32 3 110) into bore of lock cylinder and tilt handle forwards through approximately 90°. Remove lock cylinder.
  3. To install, reverse removal procedure.

STEERING SPINDLE (LOWER SECTION)

CAUTIONThere will no longer be an end stop once the steering spindle has been separated from the steering gear. The steering wheel can be turned without restriction. In order to avoid damaging contact ring in steering column, move steering wheel to straight ahead position and remove ignition key.
  1. Remove upper clamping screw on clamp and pull out steering spindle. (Scheme 24)
  2. Unfasten screws. Disconnect gong plug and On-Board Diagnosis socket and remove trim. (Scheme 1)
  3. Remove trim for pedal assembly. (Scheme 25)
  4. Unfasten nut, remove screw and detach lower section of steering spindle. (Scheme 3)
  5. Release screws and press heating valves to one side. (Scheme 26)
  6. Release screw, detach double joint and pull steering spindle inwards out of bulkhead. (Scheme 27)
  7. To Install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten double joint screw to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  8. Replace self-locking nut and attach lower section of steering spindle. Tighten to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  9. Ensure steering wheel is in straight ahead position. Markings on cap and housing must line up. Tighten upper clamping screw to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).

Scheme 24

Scheme 24
Scheme 24

Scheme 25

Scheme 25
Scheme 25

Scheme 26

Scheme 26
Scheme 26

Scheme 27

Scheme 27
Scheme 27
  1. Remove lower section of steering spindle. See «STEERING SPINDLE (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-spindle-lower-section).
  2. Pull sleeve out of assembly partition wall. (Scheme 28)
  3. Attach new sleeve with arrow (1) facing down into assembly partition wall. Insert plastic ring (2) in sleeve. (Scheme 28)

Scheme 28

Scheme 28
Scheme 28
  1. Remove lower section of steering spindle. See «STEERING SPINDLE (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-spindle-lower-section).
  2. Pull sleeve out of bulkhead. (Scheme 29)
  3. Arrow with LHD lettering (1) on sleeve must be aligned with arrow (2) in bulkhead. Attach new sleeve to bulkhead. Insert plastic ring (3) in sleeve. (Scheme 29)

Scheme 29

Scheme 29
Scheme 29

STEERING SPINDLE (UPPER SECTION)

Procedure is the same as disassembling steering column. See STEERING COLUMN under OVERHAUL.

STEERING SPINDLE BEARING (LOWER)

Procedure is the same as disassembling and assembling complete steering column. See STEERING COLUMN under OVERHAUL.

STEERING SPINDLE BEARING (UPPER)

Note. To illustrate more clearly, some figures are shown on a removed steering column.

  1. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-wheel).
  2. Take off collar (1). (Scheme 5)
  3. Remove lower section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (LOWER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  4. Remove upper section of steering column trim. See «STEERING COLUMN TRIM (UPPER SECTION)»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  5. Unfasten screws and remove stalk fixture for steering column. (Scheme 6)
  6. Lift out snap ring (2) and remove bush (3). (Scheme 30)
  7. Lift out steering spindle bearing. Remove bearing inner sleeve. (Scheme 31)
  8. To install, reverse removal procedure. Insert bearing inner sleeve with bevelled end pointing to steering block. (Scheme 32)
  9. Fit bush (3). Install snap ring (2) with special tool (32 1 090) and steering wheel screw until it snaps into place in groove of steering spindle. (Scheme 33)
  10. Check position of collar ring (1) with regard to snap ring (2). (Scheme 5)

Scheme 30

Scheme 30
Scheme 30

Scheme 31

Scheme 31
Scheme 31

Scheme 32

Scheme 32
Scheme 32

Scheme 33

Scheme 33
Scheme 33

STEERING SPINDLE DOUBLE JOINT FOR LOWER SECTION

CAUTIONThere will no longer be an end stop once the steering spindle has been separated from the steering gear. The steering wheel can be turned without restriction. In order to avoid damaging contact ring in steering column, move steering wheel to straight ahead position and remove ignition key.
  1. Remove lower clamping screw on clamp. Detach clamping piece from steering spindle. (Scheme 24)
  2. Release screws and press heating valves to one side. (Scheme 26)
  3. Release screw and remove double joint. (Scheme 27)
  4. To install, reverse removal procedure. Replace clamping screws. Tighten double joint screw to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  5. When installing clamping piece to steering spindle, ensure steering gear is in straight ahead position. Markings on cap and housing must line up. Tighten clamping screw to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  6. After installing a new double joint, it is essential to move the steering gear to the straight ahead position. Markings on cap and on housing must line up. If the steering wheel is positioned at an angle, adjust steering wheel angle. See «STEERING WHEEL ANGLE»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__steering-wheel-angle) under ADJUSTMENTS.

STEERING WHEEL

WARNINGConform with safety precautions. Incorrect handling can activate AIRBAG and result in injury.
CAUTIONAIRBAG unit must be placed with padded cushion facing upward.
  1. Move steering wheel to straight ahead position.
  2. Remove AIRBAG unit. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
  3. Mark steering wheel in relation to steering spindle. Release steering wheel to spindle bolt and remove steering wheel. (Scheme 34)
  4. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure wheels are in straight ahead position. Fit steering wheel. Markings on steering wheel and steering spindle must line up. (Scheme 35)
  5. Retaining pin (1) must snap into place in recesses (2). (Scheme 36)
  6. Tighten bolt to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).

Scheme 34

Scheme 34
Scheme 34

Scheme 35

Scheme 35
Scheme 35

Scheme 36

Scheme 36
Scheme 36

Disassembly

  1. Remove steering column. See «STEERING COLUMN»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  2. Remove ring antenna.
  3. Remove screw and remove damper. (Scheme 37)
  4. Remove protective paint and unfasten grub screws. Remove ignition starter switch. (Scheme 23)
  5. Lift out snap ring (1) and take off with sleeve (2). (Scheme 38)
  6. Lever out steering spindle bearing with a screwdriver. Remove bearing inner sleeve. (Scheme 31)
  7. Unfasten shear off screws with tool, e.g. chisel. (Scheme 39)
  8. Remove lock cylinder. See «STEERING LOCK CYLINDER»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns).
  9. Remove steering angle sensor (1) from steering spindle. (Scheme 4)
  10. Lift out snap ring (1). Remove end collar (2) and spring (3). Remove steering spindle and pull out steering column tube. (Scheme 40)
  11. Knock lower steering spindle bearing out of outer tube.
  12. Unfasten screws. Twist connector to remove from bracket. Remove gearbox motor. (Scheme 12)
  13. Remove shaft. (Scheme 13)
  14. Disconnect torsion springs (8) from both sides. Slacken nut (1). Remove axial grooved ball bearing (2) and clamping disc (3). Remove retainer (4). (Scheme 14)
  15. Use special tool (32 1 200/204) to force clamping fixture (9) out of adjusting lever (5). Grip drive of special tool with open end wrench. (Scheme 15)

Scheme 37

Scheme 37
Scheme 37

Scheme 38

Scheme 38
Scheme 38

Scheme 39

Scheme 39
Scheme 39

Scheme 40

Scheme 40
Scheme 40

Assembly

  1. To assemble, reverse disassembly procedure.
  2. Press clamping fixture (9) into adjusting lever (5) with special tools (32 1 200). Adjusting lever points towards steering lock and square section on clamping fixture must be inserted in long slot in steering column tube. (Scheme 16)
  3. Fit retainer (4), clamping disc (3) and axial grooved ball pivot (2). Connect torsion spring (8) to both sides. Replace nut (1). (Scheme 14)
  4. Tighten nut (1) to specification with adjustment lever in clamped position. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/bmw/x5/e53-1999-2003/remont/steering-column/#steering-columns__torque-specifications).
  5. When installing new bearing, press contact ring out of new bearing. Drive in new bearing (1) with special tool (32 1 250) and (00 5 500). (Scheme 41)
  6. Fit spring (3) and end collar (2). Recess in collar must point to snap ring. Install snap ring (1) with special tool (32 3 070). (Scheme 42)
  7. When installing steering angle sensor to steering spindle, ensure pin for securing rotation (2) engages in steering angle sensor (1). (Scheme 4)
  8. Tighten shear off screws until heads shear off. (Scheme 39)
  9. Insert bearing inner sleeve with bevelled end pointing to steering lock. (Scheme 32)
  10. Fit bush (2). Install snap ring (1) with special tool (32 1 090) and steering wheel screw until it snaps into place in groove of steering spindle. It is also possible to install snap ring with special tool (32 3 070). (Scheme 43)
  11. Install ignition starter switch and secure headless screws with varnish. (Scheme 23)

Scheme 41

Scheme 41
Scheme 41

Scheme 42

Scheme 42
Scheme 42

Scheme 43

Scheme 43
Scheme 43

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

ApplicationFt. Lbs. (N.m)
Steering Wheel To Steering Spindle
Nut59 (80)
Screw45 (63)
Universal Joint/Coupling To Steering Gear/Steering Spindle
Aluminum Joint18 (28)
Steel Joint14 (19)
INCH Lbs. (N.m)
Hex Screw On Bearing Block For Adjustment Of Steering Wheel27 (3)
Mechanical Adjustment Screw On Steering Column71 (8)

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

Scheme 44

Scheme 44: SPECIAL TOOLS
Scheme 44: SPECIAL TOOLS

Scheme 45

Scheme 45
Scheme 45

Scheme 46

Scheme 46
Scheme 46

Scheme 47

Scheme 47
Scheme 47

Scheme 48

Scheme 48
Scheme 48

Scheme 49

Scheme 49
Scheme 49