How to Clear the Electronic Steering Wheel Code on a BMW
by Katebo
You can clear the electronic steering wheel code on your BMW right from your home garage, saving yourself time and money. The BMW comes standard with an On-Board Diagnostics computer that receives and stores trouble codes sent to it from sensors positioned throughout the vehicle, including from the electronic steering wheel. After repairs have been made, the computer codes need to be reset so any warning lights shut off and the computer can continue to properly monitor the mechanical and electrical functions of the vehicle.
Step 1
Pop up the hood of your BMW and prop it up with the safety bar.
Step 2
Locate the negative battery terminal. Find the clamp on the terminal, which has a nut on top of it. Loosen that nut with a wrench. Slide the clamp off of the negative battery terminal, making sure it doesn't touch metal or the positive terminal.
Step 3
Wait 30 minutes while the computer resets itself, thus clearing all codes.
Step 4
Reattach the clamp to the negative terminal and tighten the nut. Lower the hood of the car.
Step 5
Put the key into the ignition and start the engine. Verify the electronic steering wheel light is shut off the instrument panel.
References
- "BMW 3-series & Z4 Models: 1999 thru 2005 (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual)"; Haynes; 2006
- "BMW 3-Series including M3 & Z3 1989-1998 (Chilton's Total Car Care Repair Manual)"; Chilton; 2001
Tips
- You have to reset the radio presets and the clock after you disconnect the battery because this zeros out the computer.
Things You'll Need
- Wrench
- Ignition key
Writer Bio
Katie B. Marsh is a self-published author, article writer, screenwriter, and inventor. After graduating from South Coast College of Court Reporting, she worked as a congressional and freelance court reporter for eight years. She began her writing career in 2005. Her content may be found on amazon.com, booksforsharing.com, and ezinearticles.com. She completed her first screenplay in October 2009.
