The most confusing part about removing a BMW steering wheel is firstly, removing the air bag. A spring-loaded retaining system with concealed openings is what stands in the way of removing a BMW airbag. Whether you’re upgrading from a standard to an M-Sport steering wheel or removing it for repair, the instructions below cover all the steps needed to remove your BMW steering wheel.
Suitable Models and Years:
BMW 1 Series E82 Coupé (2006 - 2013)
BMW 1 Series E87 Hatchback 5 doors (2003 - 2011)
BMW 1 Series E88 Convertible (2006 - 2013)
BMW 3 Series E90 Sedan (2004 - 2011)
BMW 3 Series E91 Touring (2004 - 2012)
BMW 3 Series E92 Coupé (2005 - 2013)
BMW 3 Series E93 Convertible (2005 - 2013)
BMW X1 E84 SAV (2008 - 2015)
How long will it take to remove, replace, or install a steering wheel and air bag in a BMW E82 E84 E87 E88 E90 E91 E92 E93?
< 10 Minutes
Is it easy to remove, replace, or install a steering wheel and air bag in a BMW E82 E84 E87 E88 E90 E91 E92 E93?
A beginner with basic automotive knowledge can remove, replace, or install a BMW steering wheel and air bag.
What tools are needed to remove, replace, or install a steering wheel and air bag in a BMW E82 E84 E87 E88 E90 E91 E92 E93?
- T25 Torx screwdriver
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Ratchet
- 16 mm socket
Extra Information
Tip: BMW recommends using a T25 Torx screwdriver to depress the locking springs, but a flat blade will also work.
Note: Example shown on an E82 with a M-Sport steering wheel.
Warning: Do not use any force on the air bag. Incorrect handling of the airbag may cause the airbag to be triggered and cause serious injury. The airbag must only be set down with the airbag facing upward.
Instructions to remove, replace, or install a steering wheel and air bag in a BMW E82 E84 E87 E88 E90 E91 E92 E93?
1. Disconnect negative battery lead.
2. Set wheels/steering wheel to straight position.
3. Insert a T25 Torx screwdriver at an angle into the concealed opening on the backside of the steering wheel until the locking spring is felt (approximately 1.5 cm). Red arrows shown in the images below. Push on the spring until the airbag is unlocked. Repeat on the other side.
Installation note: Snap airbag back in by using pressure either side of the BMW emblem and pushing forward.
4. Tilt airbag backwards, insert a flat blade screwdriver under the plug retaining clip to release and pull upward to disconnect. Red arrows shown in the images below. Repeat on second plug and remove the airbag. Warning! The airbag must only be set down with the airbag facing upward.
5. Disconnect the two plugs. Red arrows shown in the images below. (If necessary, disconnect plug for steering wheel heating). Remove the 16 mm bolt and remove the steering wheel. Green arrow shown in the image below.
Installation note: Tightening torque for the 16 mm bolt is 62.5 Nm.
6. Installation: Align the marking on steering wheel to the marking on the steering column. Red arrows shown in the image below. Repeat previous steps in reverse order.
