steering wheel Archives - BIMMERtips.com

BMW E46 Steering Wheel options, specs

bimmertips — Fri, 27 May 2022 21:38:25 +0000

OEM BMW E46 Steering Wheel options:

Below are the steering wheel options offered on all BMW E46 models throughout its production run from December 1997 through August 2006. Only two steering wheel sizes were available, 375mm and 385mm.

All steering wheel options were airbag equipped. The standard sport package steering wheels did not have the thicker grip or thumb rests found on the ZHP and M3 models. Alcantara wrapped wheels were reserved for the M3 CSL and ZHP and ZCP models. ZHP was the option code used for the high performance sport package on the US Spec 330i models. ZCP was the option code used for the Comeption Package equipped M3 models. ZSP was the option code used on the standard sport package for non M3 models.

BMW E46 reference quick links:

✔ Dirty steering wheel stitching? Learn how to renew steering wheel stitching back to new. HERE

✔ E46 wheel style options, specs: HERE

✔ E46 M3 wheel style options, specs: HERE

If you are able to offer a reliable source on any missing information below, please click the "CONTACT US" button on the bottom of this page.

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BMW E30 Steering Wheel options, specs

bimmertips — Sat, 29 Jan 2022 15:41:51 +0000

OEM BMW E30 Steering Wheel options:

Below are the steering wheel options offered on all BMW E30 models throughout its production run from 1982 - 1994. Only one steering wheel design was used for airbag equipped models. The remaining five offerings were all non airbag equipped models. The Mtech 1 steering wheel was offered in two diameters, 370mm and 385mm. The 370mm wheel options is more rare, therefore more desirable.

It is important to note if you are switching from an airbag wheel to a non airbag wheel (or vise versa), the turn indicator and wiper stalks are different. The airbag steering wheels sit further away from the stalk mounting points, thus have a different bend in the stalks to bring the stalks closer to the wheel. If you want to swap steering wheels from airbag to non, ensure to switch the stalks that match the wheel type to ensure proper offset distance. A non airbag wheel with airbag stalks will be closer and your hand will likely interfere with the stalks when turning the steering wheel.

BMW E30 reference quick links:

✔ Learn how to remove a non airbag BMW steering wheel HERE

✔ Sloppy BMW E30 steering feel? Learn the 5 minute fix HERE

✔ Replace your worn, lost Mtech 1 steering wheel badge HERE

✔ Make sure to check out our entire E30 quick reference guide on tips and tricks HERE

If you are able to offer a reliable source on any missing information below, please click the "CONTACT US" button on the bottom of this page.

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BMW steering wheel trim scratches fix

bimmertips — Mon, 02 Apr 2018 21:47:35 +0000

BMW E46, E39, E53 X5 sport wheel trim scratches fix:

The black rubberized coating on the BMW E46, E39 & E53 X5 interior plastic parts are notorious for scratching and peeling as the vehicle ages. The plastic steering wheel trim is one of the most common spots for this defect to happen. With the steering wheel being one of the main jewels of a vehicle's interior, it is a magnet to your eye every time you enter your vehicle. Restoring this eye sore will bring back a clean interior look. Below we will go over some of the main causes for this issue as well as typical fixes.

What are the main causes for this defect?

Scratches are the number one cause. Dragging your keys, watches, nails, purses etc. across the plastic steering wheel trim will easily create irreversible damage.
Hand lotions contain many chemicals that react with the rubberized coating and break it down to the point where it wears off completely.
Interior detailing / cleaning products. When detailing the inside of your vehicle ensure to use non harmful cleaners which will not react with the plastic in an irreversible way.
Smoking. For all you cigarette smokers out there, the chemicals in the smoke you exhale will find their way on your hands and can be transferred to the steering wheel trim to expedite the wearing reaction.
Excessive touching with your hands. Your hands contain many natural oils (or unnatural oils: grease monkey) which will again react to the coating and deteriorate the finish.

What are the OEM BMW part numbers to replace steering wheel trim?

The obvious fix is to just replace the worn part. The below part numbers are for BMW E46, E39 and E53 X5 models with either the sport or mtech wheels. The standard 4 spoke wheels do not have a replaceable cover. The 4 spoke wheel trim pieces are part of the button assembly.

Sport wheel: OEM BMW Part: 32306756514, $162, fits E46, E39 & E53 X5
Mtech wheel: OEM BMW Part: 32347833355, $175, Fits E46 M3 & E39 M5
E46 M3 CSL: OEM BMW Part: 32347833354, $175, Titan Shadow color

What are other options besides replacing steering wheel trim?

A popular solution to the peeling coating is to remove all the coating in its entirety and vinyl wrap the existing plastic trim. This allows for the customization of many colors and patterns. Best of all it is reversible. If you get sick of a color, just remove and replace the vinyl with a new one. You can get a whole 6 foot roll of vinyl for around $5
Plasti dip is another cheap solution to essentially restore a rubberized coating on the cover similar to the factory finish. You can get a can for about $5 at a hardware store. The solution is cheap, however, this is only a good short-term solution as long-term the plasti dip will eventually peel and fail just like the original factory finish.
Hydro dip the part. This process uses water to transfer a patterned film to your part. This technique may sound new but once you google the process, chances are you have seen products with this finish before. This technique is not as easy as vinyl wrapping since you will likely have to send the part off to a shop to be dipped. However, the hydro dipping process allows for a unique look that cannot be easily replicated by vinyl or paints. You can google the finish to get a better idea of what hydro dipping is.

What if my upper steering wheel trim is scratched?

The upper steering wheel trim on the sport wheels contain the multifunction buttons as an assembly to the plastic trim. Unfortunately, to replace the plastic trim you have to replace the entire upper assembly with the buttons. This is OEM BMW part number 61316949754 and cost around $200 to replace.

What are other steering wheel tips?

Click here to learn how to clean dirty colored steering wheel stitching.

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Clean dirty stitching; colored steering wheel threads.

bimmertips — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 02:47:08 +0000

Tri-color stitching, M stripe thread cleaning:

Human hands naturally produce oil which will work its way onto the threads of your stitched steering wheel over time. If you have black threads, this is not a major deal as you will most likely never notice. However, if you have custom colored stitching or the M stripe tri-color as found on the M cars you will notice the vibrancy of the thread color fades over time. Many miles pass and hot summers lead to sweaty hands which will ultimately require the need for cleaning to restore the original look.

Luckily the process and supplies are cheap and simple. The key ingredient here is standard dish soap.

What supplies are needed?

➊ Dish soap
➋ Empty bowl
➌ Water
➍ Clean tooth brush
➎ Clean drying rag

Why is dish soap the key ingredient?

Dish soap is a natural degreaser. Dawn dish soap is actually used to clean the oil off wildlife animals in the ocean after crude oil spills, in addition to cleaning greasy dishes. Because of its incredible power to remove grease and oil, dish soap is a perfect solution to remove the natural oils human hands produce which transfer to the steering wheel through normal use.

How much time is needed?

About 10 minutes total for one steering wheel.

What is the process to clean dirty stitching?

✔ Refer to the pictures below for reference on the process described:

Simply apply a few drops of dish soap to an empty bowl, then add tap water. Room temperature to cold water temperature is preferred. The toothbrush should be brand new or completely clean from any grease or debris. Do not use a used toothbrush from cleaning wheels. You can get a three-pack of brand new toothbrushes from Walmart for 99 cents, get a few packs. The toothbrushes will eventually go to use, they come in handy when cleaning your car; or your teeth.

Dip the clean toothbrush in the soapy water and start to gently apply it to the stitching. Go in different directions using swirling motion. Swirl left, then right, then straight back and forth. Moving the brush in different directions will ensure all surface areas of the threads come in contact with the bristles of the brush. It is very similar to brushing your teeth. After a few passes rinse the brush in the water and continue. The more times you dip the toothbrush in the solution the more clean soap you will have to clean the soiled threads.

CAUTION

Do not over scrub the threads! It does not take much pressure at all to clean the threads. Applying too much pressure will result in threads pulling out of the weave and result in small "hairs" to lift.

You should begin to see color coming back to the colored threads as the grease is removed after only a few seconds. Take a clean rag and lightly dab the dirty water from the steering wheel. Continue to brush the remainder of the threads in the same fashion until the whole steering wheel is complete. Other stitching found on the seats, shift boot, arm rest etc. all can be cleaned using this same procedure.

Where can I learn more BMW tips?

Learn more BMW pro tips by clicking HERE

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BMW Mtech steering wheel badge replacement

bimmertips — Tue, 23 May 2017 22:17:51 +0000

BMW MTech steering wheel badge / emblem replacement:

One of the most recognizable features of the Mtech 1 steering wheel is the iconic BMW Motorsport colored badge on the middle spoke. This badge or emblem is stuck on the wheel with adhesive. Over time this badge can fade, scratch or completely fall off. Luckily, BMW still makes the original badge and can be ordered online or at the dealer for around $20 - $25. Replacing this badge with a new factory replacement will bring back vibrancy to your Mtech 1 sport steering wheel.

If your BMW MTech steering wheel badge is still in place but worn, just pick at it with your fingers and peel it off. Once removed, used goo gone or rubbing alcohol to clean off any residual adhesive. Make sure the surface is completely clean of any oils or residue before applying the new emblem.

Apply the new BMW M stripe badge by pealing off the backing. Make sure to not touch the sticky part with your fingers, this will transfer oil onto the back. If any oil or dirt gets on the back, the emblem will not fully stick to the steering wheel. Make sure to install the BMW M stripe emblem in the correct direction with the Blue Stripe toward the left side of the wheel.

To remove / replace the steering wheel center roundel badge / emblem, make sure to see our post on this process HERE.

Where can I buy the BMW MTech steering wheel badge?

We sell them directly from our store HERE

What is the OEM BMW part number?

The OEM BMW part number is: 32331155957

What models will it fit?

Any Mtech 1 steering wheel. These steering wheels are commonly found on the BMW E30 and E28 models.

How much does it cost?

Approxiately $28.99, prices vary due to market demand.

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BMW M badge replacement, Sport Steering Wheel

bimmertips — Tue, 16 May 2017 22:56:26 +0000

BMW M badge replacement, steering wheel:

BMW Mtech 2 steering wheels have an M badge located on the middle spoke. Over time this badge can crack, fade, scratch or just fall out. Luckily, BMW still makes the original badge and can be ordered online or at the dealer for around $20. Replacing this badge with a new factory replacement will bring back some vibrancy to your sport steering wheel.

The badge is pressed in place by two posts protruding from the rear of the badge. If your worn badge is still existing, take a non metallic pry tool or a metallic screw driver with the end taped and pry off the old badge. Installation of the new badge is done by simply pressing the new badge in place to where the posts are inserted in the existing post holes.

To remove the steering wheel center roundel badge / emblem, make sure to see our post on this process HERE.

Where to buy?

The sport steering wheel M emblem can be ordered through your local BMW dealership or any online parts distributor. Simply "GOOGLE" the part number to find a local vendor.

What is the OEM BMW part number?

OEM BMW part number: 32332226479

What models will it fit?

This emblem fits any E30, E36, E34, E32, E39, E39 and E81 model airbag steering wheels equipped with the M emblem. The listed BMW models are the OEM wheels that were available with this emblem from the factory. Many of the listed models have interchangeable wheels, such as E30 and E28. It is likely your model may not be listed above but still have a wheel with this style emblem.

To check if your wheel has this emblem, remove the existing emblem and verify the recessed area has two holes which accept the emblem posts. If the holes are existing, this badge will fit your steering wheel.

How much does it cost?

Prices hover around $20.

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BMW steering wheel emblem replacement

bimmertips — Sun, 14 May 2017 22:10:53 +0000

BMW steering wheel emblem / badge replacement:

BMW steering wheel emblems on non airbag 80s and 90s steering wheels tend to show their age through cracking of the plastic, fading of the paint or scratching of the surface. Perhaps your emblem is missing altogether. Luckily, BMW still manufactures these parts and can be purchased new today to bring life back to your interior.

BMW steering wheel emblem replacement:

The removal process is one of the easiest procedures to perform. Simply grab a non metallic pry tool such as one for removing interior trim or take a flat head screwdriver and wrap the end in tape. The purpose of the non metallic tool is to not scuff your rubber steering wheel.

Press down on the edge of the badge and slide the pry tool under the emblem and pry it up. The emblem will pop out of place quite easily. Remove the emblem with the replacement part by centering the emblem on the wheel and pressing it in place.

To remove the entire steering wheel, make sure to see our post on this process HERE.

Where to buy?

The steering wheel emblem can be ordered through your local BMW dealership or any online parts distributor such as FCPeuro.com or ECStuning.com

What is the OEM BMW part number?

32331117279

What models will it fit?

This emblem fits any BMW E9, E12, E21, E23, E24, E28, E30, E31, E32 and E34 model non airbag steering wheels equipped with the removable badge.

How much does it cost?

Prices range from $15 - $22.

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How to Remove OEM BMW Non Airbag Steering Wheel

bimmertips — Sat, 11 Feb 2017 17:56:33 +0000

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.

The post How to Remove OEM BMW Non Airbag Steering Wheel appeared first on BIMMERtips.com.

Standard on:	Base model E46s
Diameter:	385 mm (15.2 inches)
Number of spokes:	4
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	None
Notes:	Not used on any US Spec models.

Standard on:	Base model E46s
Diameter:	385 mm (15.2 inches)
Number of spokes:	4
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	The only base model steering wheel offered for US Spec E46 models

Standard on:	Sport Package (ZSP), early models
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Early model E46 sport package only

Standard on:	Sport Package (ZSP), late models
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Late model E46 sport package only. Bottom spoke is double spoke design

Standard on:	ZHP Performance Package
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Perforated Leather, Alcantara
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	ZHP Package (US Spec only, 330i models). Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

Standard on:	Base model M3
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	M Color
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

Standard on:	CSL & ZCP (Competition) Package
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Alcantara
Stitching color:	M Color
Fingertip control(s):	M Track / Dynamic mode
Notes:	Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

Steering wheel size:	380mm
OEM Part Number:	32331154131
Non Airbag / Airbag:	Non Airbag
Notes:	Early, base models. Non leather wrapped.

Steering wheel size:
OEM Part Number:	2341157700 (wheel)
	32341159505 (airbag)
Non Airbag / Airbag:	Airbag
Notes:	Used from production date December 1987 onward..

Wheel Name:	MTech 1, M-Technik 1
Steering wheel size:	370mm
	385mm
OEM Part Number:	32339058655 (370mm)
	32339058694 (385mm)
Non Airbag / Airbag:	Non Airbag
Used on:	E30 M3, E30 325i w/ M-Tech Package.
Notes:	370mm diameter is more rare, but the notice of feel in hand is negligible.

Wheel Name:	MTech 2, M-Technik 2
Steering wheel size:	370mm
OEM Part Number:	32332226086
Non Airbag / Airbag:	Non Airbag
Used on:	E30 M3, E30 325i w/ M-Tech 2 Package.
Notes:	Used from production date September 1989 onward.

Problem:	Scratched, worn steering wheel trim.
Application:	All BMW E46, E39 & E53 sport / M3 / M5 models.
Solution:	Remove and replace, vinyl wrap.
Cost:	$5 to $175
Where to buy:	Dealership, FCPeuro.com, ECStuning.com

Problem:	Dirty threads on steering wheel (or seats, armrest, boots etc.).
Application:	All model BMWs
Solution:	Use dish soap with water and a clean toothbrush.
Cost:	FREE / $1

Problem:	Faded, cracked or worn BMW Mtech1 M stripe badge.
Application:	Any Mtech 1 steering wheel.
Solution:	Replace worn emblem.
Cost:	~ $28.99
OEM BMW Part Number:	32331155957
Where to buy:	We sell them HERE

Problem:	Faded, cracked or worn BMW M sport steering wheel emblem.
Application:	E30, E36, E34, E32, E81, E38, E39.
Solution:	Replace worn emblem.
Cost:	~$20
OEM BMW Part Number:	32332226479

Problem:	Faded, cracked or worn BMW steering emblem.
Application:	All model BMWs w/ non airbag steering wheel.
Solution:	Replace worn emblem
Cost:	$15 - $22
OEM BMW Part Number:	32331117279