2008 135i convertible steering column tilt

[Pushrod]

The steering column tilt/extend lock will not lock in place. I can hold the lock lever and the column will lock but as soon as I release the lever it goes to unlock position. This leaves the steering wheel in float mode (up and down, in and out). Any suggestions on how to access this mechanism is appreciated. 

[Greydog]

Morning Larry

Welcome to the Forum

That must make for and interesting drive 😅 135i's are pretty lively so knowing which way it's pointing is a must

Take a look at www.realoem,com put the last 7 digits of your Vin into the search box it will call up your model, then check the Steering section you should find a section for steering column adjustment

A friend of one of our sons had a similar issue with his 1 series unfortunately you have to get under the dash to fix it ( it helps to be young and bendy). Look at the small exploded drawing his problem was the spring had broken he managed to get one from the local Dealer (cost him £15 iirc) after that it was a simple fix. Just a Faff to get at 

Dave 

 

[Pushrod]

10 hours ago, Greydog said:

Morning Larry

Welcome to the Forum

That must make for and interesting drive 😅 135i's are pretty lively so knowing which way it's pointing is a must

Take a look at www.realoem,com put the last 7 digits of your Vin into the search box it will call up your model, then check the Steering section you should find a section for steering column adjustment

A friend of one of our sons had a similar issue with his 1 series unfortunately you have to get under the dash to fix it ( it helps to be young and bendy). Look at the small exploded drawing his problem was the spring had broken he managed to get one from the local Dealer (cost him £15 iirc) after that it was a simple fix. Just a Faff to get at 

Dave 

 

Dave,

Thanks so much.  I see the spring in the parts diagram. Do you know if any part of the dash had to be removed?

Thanks again 

Larry

[Greydog]

Morning Larry

All the under tray covers from memory but the job was achieved from under the dash. I took out the drivers seat to get more room (disconnect the battery) but if your young and bendy you may be able to get way without removing the seat 🤣

Check the internet for any how too video's 1 2 3 4 series are all very similar. One of the best bits of modern phones is being able to take pictures of how things fit and where they go that will help when putting stuff back

If you know anyone with a copy of INPA/ISTA (BMW Diagnostics) it includes TIS (technical Information) and WIS (Workshop Information) which obviously helps knowing how a dealer would go about it

Dave

Just found this picture shows how the spring fits (this from a friends pic collection

Hope it helps