32 31 241 Replacing adjusting lever for steering column

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW X3, 2009 BMW X3, 2008 BMW X3, 2007 BMW X3, and 2006 BMW X3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove lower section of trim, see 32 31 020 Removing and installing / replacing lower section of steering column trim .

Disconnect plug connections (1).

Remove wiring harness (2) from cable guide (3).

Fig 1: Plug Connections, Wiring Harness And Cable Guide

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1), remove cable guide (2).

Fig 2: Screws And Cable Guide

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Clamping bearing must be held down until secured.

Securing clamping bearing:

Pull retaining tab (1) in direction of steering column.
Turn clamping bearing head (3) so that pin (2) on clamping bearing is held by retaining tab (1).

Fig 3: Pulling Retaining Tab

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: The secure fitting must not be released when the adjusting

Unscrew nut (1).

Remove needle bearing (2) and washer.

Pull out adjusting lever (3).

Installation:

Replace nut (1).
Move adjusting lever (3) into locked position.
Fit washer and needle bearing (2) and screw on nut (1) until it contacts needle bearing (2).

Fig 4: Nut, Needle Bearing And Adjusting Lever
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Open and close adjusting lever (3).
Tighten nut (1) to torque value 1.
Tightening torque: 32 31 3AZ, see 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .
Open and close adjusting lever (3) again.
Tighten nut (1) to torque value 2.
Tightening torque: 32 31 3AZ, see 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .
Open and close adjusting lever (3) again.
Tighten nut (1) again to torque value 2.

Tightening torque: 32 31 3AZ, see 32 31 STEERING COLUMN .

IMPORTANT: Observe tightening torques without fail!

The clamping force is adjusted by means of the tightening torque.