32 00... Notes on steering gear/steering column replacement following accident damage

Steering gear facts 

In the event of accidents or driving conditions similar to accidents, shock-like loads can cause different types of damage to steering boxes. When a steering box is externally undamaged, it is sometimes only possible to identify damage with great difficulty and with great effort. However, damage of this nature poses an unacceptable risk to the vehicle because it can result in failure of the steering system.

Because of the disproportionate amount of effort involved, it is generally not sensible to check thoroughly all the individual components of the steering box and as an alternative it is necessary to take into account other components which can be checked more easily.

Steering gear procedure 

The steering box must be replaced if one or more of the following points apply:

1. Visible or noticeable damage to the steering box
   • Version with electric steering box (EPS): Examine in particular the control unit with all plug connections for damage and hairline cracks.
2. Unacceptable torque increase and jamming when the steering box is turned from lock to lock (without hydraulic/electrical assistance)
3. Permissible tolerances exceeded during axle/wheel alignment (include alignment record with invoice/report if necessary)
4. Fire damage
5. Damage, permanent deformation or fractures to:
   • Wheel rims in the event of a negative result from the wheel alignment check
   • Spring struts, steering stubs, wheel carriers
   • Wishbones
   • Struts or trailing links or anti-roll bar with this function
   • Body-side screwing/attachment points for wheel guide/control components
   • Front axle support
   • Pitman arms
   • Track rods
   • Steering box fixtures
   • Steering Column
   NOTE: If the steering box replacement work which is required for safety reasons is refused by the customer or an insurance company for cost reasons, a memorandum to that effect must be drawn up and countersigned by the party bearing the costs of the accident repair.

Steering column procedure 

The steering column must be replaced if visibly damaged, deformed or broken!

F2x, F3x: If there is no visible damage, check the steering column for sheared off crash rivet:

1. Open steering column lock
2. Pull steering wheel out towards the driver (towards the body) until the physical limit position is reached, but do not use excessive force.
3. Push steering wheel towards engine compartment (approx. 20-30 mm away from body) into the comfort position and lock.

   If there is no end stop when pulling out the steering column or the steering column shroud gaiter is under tension, then the crash rivet is sheared off!!

   → Renew steering column!

This guideline is binding for all accident repairs to BMW and MINI vehicles.