Steering Column Switches BMW Z3 E36

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

Note. On Z3, 323i, 323is and 840Ci, information is not available at time of publication. Wiring diagrams may be available. See WIRING DIAGRAMS .

Steering column switches consist of cruise control switch, ignition switch, wiper switch and combination switch. Combination switch incorporates turn signal, high beam and trip computer functions.

TESTING

Testing information is not available from manufacturer at time of publication.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

COMBINATION SWITCH

Note. Combination switch consists of a turn signal indicator switch, headlight dimmer switch, headlight flash-to-pass switch and trip computer switches.

Removal & Installation (3-Series)

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove air bag and steering wheel assembly. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
2. Remove lower left dashboard trim. Remove screws and steering column lower trim. Remove steering column upper trim. Remove screws, ground wire and combination switch. Detach flasher relay from side of steering column.
3. Disconnect horn switch wiring. Detach wire straps, and disconnect wiring for combination switch. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure ground wire is attached to combination switch.

Removal & Installation (5-Series & 7-Series)

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove air bag and steering wheel assembly. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
2. Remove lower left dashboard trim. Remove screws and steering column lower trim. Drive out pin, and lift out expander rivet. Remove steering column upper trim.
3. Disconnect horn switch wiring. Press in retaining hooks on both sides of switch, and pull out combination switch. To install, reverse removal procedure.

CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH

Note. Cruise control switch removal and installation information is not available from manufacturer at time of publication.

Removal & Installation (M Coupe, M Roadster & Z3)

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove lower left instrument panel screw. Remove screw at center console. Unclip instrument panel bottom trim panel. Remove lower steering column screw. Remove headless screws on both sides of ignition switch. (Scheme 1) Disconnect electrical connector. Remove ignition switch.
2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Check position of ignition switch in relation to steering wheel lock. Check position of turn indicator lever in relation to steering wheel. Secure headless screws with locking compound.

Scheme 1

Removal & Installation (3-Series, 5-Series & 7-Series)

Remove lower steering column cover. Unlock connector from ignition starter switch. (Scheme 2)Disconnect connector. Remove protective paint. Remove headless screws. (Scheme 3) Remove ignition switch. To install, reverse removal procedure. Secure headless screws with locking compound.

Scheme 2

Scheme 3

See WIPER/WASHER SYSTEMS article.

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

WIRING DIAGRAMS

Note. See appropriate wiring diagram in WIRING DIAGRAM section.

See also:
• WIRING DIAGRAMS