Steering Wheel - Repair, Clicking Noise When Turned

Group 32
Steering

Bulletin Number
32 01 93 3752

Woodcliff Lake, NJ
May 1993
Product Engineering

This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.I. 32 01 93 (3752) dated April 1993. It provides added definition to flat rate operations. Please remove and discard S.I. 32 01 93 (3752) dated April 1993 from your S.I. binder.

SUBJECT: Steering Wheel Repairs

MODELS:
3 Series (E36), 5 Series (E34), 7 Series (E32), 8 Series (E31)

Situation:
With the introduction of the new style (steering wheel fastened by a bolt) steering column in approximately 7/90, there were also numerous changes to the steering wheel.

One of these changes was to the locking tab for the airbag contact ring which changed the mounting point from the airbag contact ring housing to the steering wheel itself. The new style locking tab experienced a problem with breaking off the end of the tab, causing a clicking noise when turning the steering wheel.

This tab was strengthened in 2/92 which eliminated the problem of the tab breaking, but the new style parts were not available through the parts system until recently which required that the entire steering wheel be replaced to cure the problem.





Correction:
To replace the locking tab, remove the airbag module (refer to Repair Manual 32-34/4). Remove the steering wheel fastening bolt, pry out the lock (1) with a small screwdriver, and remove the spring (2).

Replace the locking tab and reinstall spring and lock. Reinstall wheel fastening bolt and airbag.

Note:
Replacement of the entire steering wheel assembly will not be paid under warranty when replacement or repair of individual components will cure the complaint.

Other complaints, such as with the airbag contact ring or the actuation of the horn, can similarly be repaired without replacement of the entire steering wheel. For further information refer to S.I. 61 04 90 (3082) and S.I. 61 06 90 (3107).

Warranty Status:
Covered under the terms of the BMW New Car Limited Warranty.

Replacement of locking tab or related parts:

Defect Code: 32 33 05 39 00
Labor Operation:
32 33 000
32 34 500 (if applicable please refer to the appropriate flat rate manual)