BMW Fog Lamp Removal Procedure

BMW fog lamp removal is a simple task that takes only a few minutes and a single tool.  Removal may be required to change a bulb, replace a broken lens or perhaps install blank out plate in its place.  This demonstration is done the E36 platform however most other cars from the era such as E38 and E39 are the same procedure.  Earlier models like the E30 and E34 are different, these fog lamps are screwed in from the back side of the bumper.

Tools required:

• Phillips head screw driver

The only tool you need for the fog lamp removal is a phillips head screw driver.  Start but locating the upper cutout on the inner side of the fog lamp as shown in the below attachment.  This is where you want to insert the screw driver.  Make sure as you insert the screw driver the handle is parallel to the ground.  The goal is to push a plastic tab that will make the lamp pop out.  Do not go into the opening with at an aggressive angle like you are stabbing at it.

It may be difficult to find this plastic tab at first, but after a few attempts you will become successful.  Look at the image below with the fog lamp already removed to get an idea of what the tab looks like.  This will help to envision pushing it once the screw driver is inserted.  

Once the fog lamp is popped out, grab it and gently pull it towards you.  Unclip the fog lamp light harness with the clamps on the connector.  Grab with your fingers, squeeze together and pull it out.  Now the fog lamp is completely removed.  To change a bulb, turn the back of the lamp housing counter clockwise.

For lamp reinstallation notice the fog lamp housing has a two tabs on the upper and lower surface.  These tabs pivot in the fog lamp notch.  Insert the outer side of the fog lamp at an angle to engage the tabs into the notch.  Next, swing the fog lamp towards the tab side.  The lamp will simply snap into place.  Make sure you feel a satisfying click to know it is locked in place and will not fall out when driving.  

BMW Non Airbag Steering Wheel Removal Procedure

Removing an OEM BMW non airbag steering wheel is a great beginner project for new BMW owners.  If you have a busted odometer and need to replace the gears you must remove the steering wheel to get access. Replacing a 4 spoke wheel with a Mtech wheel will require removal.  This demonstration is done on a E30 model.  Older models such as E21’s, E9’s, E10’s etc will have a similar procedure but the steering wheel nut may vary in size and final torque.

Tools required:

• Flat head screw driver or small pry tool
• 22mm socket
• Socket wrench
• Socket extension
• Ignition key

The first step is to have the key removed from the ignition and steering column locked.  Having the steering wheel locked is critical when removing the nut later on or else your wheel will just spin.  Make sure the wheel is centered and not cranked over to full lock.

*** If you have a M-tech 2 wheel (which is non airbag), the roundel does not need to be removed.   However, you do need to remove the center piece which is just held in place with some plastic clips.  Gently grab the edges of the center piece and pull straight towards you.  The wires for the horn will be attached to this piece and need to be slid off for the rest of the removal process.  Please see images below for clarification.

If you want to make a custom color steering wheel roundel like the one pictured in the images, please see our how to on this by clicking HERE.

Make sure your turn signal and wiper stalks are in the neutral or off position.

Once the wheel is locked take a flat head screw driver or small pry tool to get between the steering wheel roundel and the rubber wheel (see image below).  Any non metallic pry tool should do the trick but if you are using a flat head screw driver and are worried about scuffing your wheel, simply wrap the end in tape for protection.  Get under the roundel with the pry tool and it will just pop out.

Now that the center mounting nut is exposed, take a 22mm socket with your extension and remove the center nut.  If your wheel is spinning and not loosening you forgot to remove the key from the ignition and lock the wheel.  Once the nut is off, put the key back in the ignition and turn to the first click to unlock the steering column lock pin.

We recommend taking a sharpie and marking the steering column post  and wheel to mark a center line.  This will help you line up the wheel when reinstalling. (see image below).

The wheel should now be free to pull towards you and completely remove from the column.

To reinstall, follow the above instructions in the reverse order.

Notes:

• The torque for the center nut is: 56 ft/lb
• Make sure to put the washer back on first before the nut.
• If after reinstallation your turn indicators do not return to neutral after turning, your indicators were not in neutral position prior to removal.  To fix this issue center the wheel, remove it and reinstall with the turn indicators in neutral.