Accepted Answer

I can find the repair instructions for you. I looked up for a 318. What is the designation of the vehicle?

 

You should disconnect the battery while working on any airbag system and make sure not to reconnect the battery with an airbag off as it will store a fault. The fault can be cleared if it does happen however.

 

Remove airbag unit, refer to 32 34 020.

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Warning! Comply with safety precautions! Incorrect handling can activate airbag and result in injury. Disconnect battery and cover negative pole or terminal.

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Turn steering wheel to straight-ahead position (markings on steering gear and steering spindle aligned). Unscrew bolt. Mark position of steering wheel relative to steering spindle. Pull off steering wheel.

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Note: The loosening of the screw activates the spring clip (1) which holds contact ring in centre position.

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Installation: Lockpin (1) must engage in opening (2) of contact ring. Tightening Torque, refer to Technical Data 32 33 1AZ.

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Adjust contact ring if necessary: Press down spring (1). Turn contact clockwise or counterclockwise as far as stop. Turn back about 3 turns until arrows for centre position are aligned. Release spring (1).

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Installation: Coat slip ring with grease, refer to BMW Service Operating Fluids.

Release screw. Pull lower section of steering-column casing off upper section. Installation: Check for correct position of lock.

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Pull (orange) plug-in connection out of holder on steering column and disconnect.

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Release screws (Torx socket T 30). Installation: First tighten screws on right-hand side in forward direction. Do not pinch wires. Tightening torque, refer to Technical Data 32 34 1AZ.

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Pull off connector and remove airbag unit. Important! Lay airbag unit with impact pad facing upwards (luggage compartment) only.

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Airbag II: Important! If a fault has been detected in the airbag system (airbag indicator light illuminates), a 10-minute waiting period must be observed after disconnecting the battery. Capacitor in control unit is discharged and a trigger pulse cannot be generated inadvertently. Loosen screws (1). Installation: Tightening torque: 2 Nm.

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Pull off connector and remove airbag unit. Installation: Secure airbag unit in steering wheel. Do not pinch wires.

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Warning! Lay airbag unit to one side (in luggage compartment): padded side must always face upwards.

Expert:	BmwMasterTech
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Answered:	11/5/2008

BMW Mechanic

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