To facilitate steering when parking, a hydraulic power steering is fitted as standard to the vehicle. The amplification is carried out depending on the engine speed. At a high speed, the gain is insignificant, and at a low speed, on the contrary, it is more significant.
Depending on the model and version, steering is facilitated by a hydraulic booster, the action of which depends on the speed of the vehicle. Due to this, the effort required when turning the steering wheel to the stop and when the vehicle is stationary is negligible, and at high speeds, on the contrary, due to the reduced influence of the amplifier, a higher feeling of the road and steering precision are achieved.
The power steering consists of an oil pump, oil reservoir and pipelines. The oil pump is driven by a V-ribbed belt. The pump takes oil from the reservoir and delivers it under high pressure to the steering gear. The steering gear adjuster provides the necessary support for the force on the steering wheel.
The folded driver's airbag is located under a cover in the center of the steering wheel. In the event of a severe frontal collision, the control unit ignites a small explosive charge in the cushion. The non-poisonous gases released during this process inflate the airbag within a few milliseconds. This time is enough to soften the blow of the forward upper body of the driver. Within a few seconds, the inflatable pillow folds up again, as the gases flow out of it through special openings. Work on the airbag must only be carried out by a BMW workshop.
Caution: Always replace self-locking nuts. Welding and straightening work on steering parts is not allowed. Work on the airbag must only be carried out by a specialist workshop, risk of explosion!