2024-2025 BMW Steering Column Clacking Noise

Owners of certain 2024-2025 BMW models, including the 5 Series Sedan (G60), 7 Series Sedan (G70), M5 Sedan (G90), M5 Touring (G99), and iX Sports Activity Vehicle (i20), may experience a BMW steering column clacking noise when adjusting the steering column. This issue is specifically noted when the column is moved inwards towards the instrument cluster, near its limit position. BMW has released Service Information Bulletin SIB 32 08 25 to address this concern.

This bulletin, SIB 32 08 25, clarifies that the noise does not occur during the up and down movement of the steering column. It provides a detailed procedure for technicians to resolve the BMW steering column clacking noise through a software calibration process.

Symptoms

The primary symptom is a distinct clacking noise that occurs when the electric steering column is adjusted inwards, specifically towards the instrument cluster. This noise is most noticeable as the steering column approaches its inward limit position. It is important to note that this specific noise does not relate to the vertical (up and down) movement of the steering column.

Cause of the Clacking Noise

According to BMW, the root cause of this BMW steering column clacking noise is the loss of the "standardization of the limit positions" in the steering column's software. These limit positions, also referred to as end stops, define the maximum travel range of the steering column. When this software calibration is lost, the system may produce an audible clacking sound as it reaches its physical limits without proper software guidance.

Important Warnings

BMW explicitly states that a parts replacement for the steering column will not provide a remedy for this issue. The problem is software-related, and replacing hardware will not resolve the underlying cause. This repair is classified as both "MOBILE FRIENDLY" and "REMOTE SOFTWARE UPGRADE (RSU) FRIENDLY," indicating it can be performed efficiently by technicians.

Repair Procedure Summary

The correction for the BMW steering column clacking noise involves a software calibration process, referred to as a "teach-in" procedure. This must be performed using the corresponding ISTA test module. The general steps are:

1. Perform a vehicle test: This initial step ensures a comprehensive diagnostic overview.
2. Access Service Functions in ISTA: After the vehicle test is completed, technicians must navigate the ISTA system.
3. Select Steering Column Adjustment: The path within ISTA is typically Service function/ Chassis/ Electrical steering column adjustment/ ELSV: Standardization/ ABL ELSV: "Standardization/ Display".
4. Follow On-Screen Instructions: The ISTA system will guide the technician through the necessary steps to teach in, or calibrate, the steering column's limit positions. This process restores the lost "standardization of the limit positions" in the software.

BMW has also provided a video, V32 07 25, to assist technicians with this procedure.

Warranty Information

This repair is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. The specific Repair Code for this issue is 3231153900, labeled as "Steering column adjustment, electric Unpleasant noises."

Technicians should obtain the flat rate unit (FRU) allowances for the following labor operations:

• 00 00 006: "Carrying out vehicle test (Main work)" (As applicable)
• 00 00 556: "Carrying out vehicle test (Plusposition work)" (As applicable, used if 00 00 006 is part of another main repair)
• 61 21 528: "Supporting voltage of the vehicle electrical system / recharging vehicle battery" (As applicable)
• 61 00 006: "Carrying out vehicle diagnosis, ABL (Work time), confirming the issue described in this Service Information and running the following: 'Standardization/ ABL ELSV: Standardization/ Display'" (WT FRU)
• 00 58 500: "Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate" (2 FRU, alternative to 61 00 006)

Note that labor operation codes 61 00 006 and 00 58 500 are not considered Main labor operations. For specific procedures regarding documenting and claiming diagnosis work time, technicians should refer to SI B01 01 20 or B01 07 20.

Owner Action

If your 2024-2025 BMW exhibits a BMW steering column clacking noise when adjusted inwards, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized BMW service center. Since a parts replacement is not the solution and the repair involves specialized software calibration, this issue must be addressed by a qualified technician using the BMW ISTA diagnostic system.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 10255395