Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
61 31 231 Removing and installing/replacing steering wheel electronics control unit
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove AIRBAG UNIT
E60, E61: Version with standard steering wheel, illustrations show steering wheel removed:
Release screws (1).
Remove steering wheel retaining plate (2) upwards out of multifunction steering wheel (3).
E60, E61: Version with sports steering wheel; E63, E64, illustrations show steering wheel removed:
Release screws (1).
Lever out complete steering wheel retaining plate (4) with decorative trim (3) all round, do not tilt!
Release complete steering wheel retaining plate (4) with decorative trim (3) in direction of arrow from fixtures (2).
Disconnect associated plug connections and remove complete steering wheel retaining plate (4) with decorative trim (3).
Installation:
Make sure electrical leads are correctly routed.
All:
Pull steering wheel electronics control unit (1) in direction of arrow out of steering wheel (2).
Unlock plug connections (1) and disconnect.
Remove steering wheel electronics control unit (2).
Installation:
Guide pins (3) of steering wheel electronics control unit (2) must be exactly seated in associated mountings.
Make sure electrical leads (4) are correctly routed.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.