Removal and installation the steering wheel, airbag unit and its contact ring (BMW 7 Series E38)

1. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.



2. Remove two bolts.

Do not pinch the cables during installation.

Models produced before 03.1999.

1. Disconnect the electrical connector of the squib (1), horn switch (2) and steering wheel control buttons (3). Remove the airbag unit and set it aside with the front side facing up.

2. Set the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position (the marks on the steering gear housing and on the steering shaft must match).



3. Remove the bolt, mark the position of the steering wheel relative to the steering shaft and remove the steering wheel.

When the bolt is loosened, the locking spring (F) is activated, which holds the contact ring in the neutral position, therefore, in order to maintain the functionality of the contact ring, the steering wheel must not be turned until the bolt is tightened.

4. Install the steering wheel in the reverse order. The locking pin (1) must enter the socket (2).



5. If necessary, adjust the contact ring. To do this, press the spring (F on illustrations), determine the neutral position of the contact ring by dividing its full rotation around the axis in half and release the spring. Note the coincidence of the marks (1).

Models from 03.1999.

1. Disconnect the connectors (1 and 2), remove the airbag unit and set it aside with the front side facing up.



2. Set the steering wheel to a position corresponding to the straight-ahead movement of the vehicle.



3. Remove the bolt and remove the steering wheel.



4. Installation is carried out in the reverse order. The marks on the steering wheel and on the steering shaft must match. The locking pins (1) must enter the sockets (2).

All models (replacement of contact ring)

1. With the steering wheel removed, remove the cover and disconnect the ground wire.





2. Remove the screws and slip ring.

The leash (1) can only be removed after the contact ring has been secured to the steering wheel – squeeze both ends and pull out the leash.

3. Installation is carried out in reverse order.