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      11-08-2011, 01:20 AM   #1
JOHNBMWM5
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Cool What is entailed in replacing power steering

MODULE?
How long would it take and is there a diagram of parts please, thanks.
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      11-08-2011, 08:10 AM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by johnbmw6 View Post
MODULE?
How long would it take and is there a diagram of parts please, thanks.
The "module" is actually called the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) Control Unit and is installed in an assembly on top of the steering rack and pinion unit. There are (4) possible variations (with and without Variable Sport Steering and before or after Sept. 2011 build dates).

It's entirely possible that they will just replace the complete steering rack just to be sure it's NOT a mechanical problem instead of only an electronic issue.

It's unlikely that your dealer will have the EPS CU or a new rack and pinion in stock, so the repair time will probably depend more on how long it takes to deliver the parts rather than the time it takes to install them.
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      11-08-2011, 08:40 AM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Lotus7 View Post
The "module" is actually called the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) Control Unit and is installed in an assembly on top of the steering rack and pinion unit. There are (4) possible variations (with and without Variable Sport Steering and before or after Sept. 2011 build dates).

It's entirely possible that they will just replace the complete steering rack just to be sure it's NOT a mechanical problem instead of only an electronic issue.

It's unlikely that your dealer will have the EPS CU or a new rack and pinion in stock, so the repair time will probably depend more on how long it takes to deliver the parts rather than the time it takes to install them.
Many thanks for this information Lotus7, my bmw engineer says he has now found a fault code "SIMILAR" to the "Recall code", and he has sent this info to BMW, he says he has to now wait for the reply and recommendations of BMW( which could take a week or more
I have just got off the phone to Customer services and asked for them to assist in hurrying things up, awaiting their return call.
The engineer seems to think he can just replace the "Module" if that proves the fault.
He has clearewd the fault code, but like myself thinks it could just return at any time.
My unit is Post september with sport steering mode, build date week 40.
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      11-08-2011, 09:17 AM   #4
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Bad luck with your car

I had the electric steering fail on my passat. Was replaced in a few hours but it took a day to get the parts. Hopefully it'll be the same for you from BMW
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      11-08-2011, 10:00 AM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Lotus7 View Post
The "module" is actually called the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) Control Unit and is installed in an assembly on top of the steering rack and pinion unit. There are (4) possible variations (with and without Variable Sport Steering and before or after Sept. 2011 build dates).

It's entirely possible that they will just replace the complete steering rack just to be sure it's NOT a mechanical problem instead of only an electronic issue.

It's unlikely that your dealer will have the EPS CU or a new rack and pinion in stock, so the repair time will probably depend more on how long it takes to deliver the parts rather than the time it takes to install them.
I wonder if it’s possible to upgrade to variable assist steering by changing out the module?
I had it on my E83 but didn’t order it on my F25.
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      11-08-2011, 11:35 AM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Harplayr View Post
I wonder if it’s possible to upgrade to variable assist steering by changing out the module?
I had it on my E83 but didn’t order it on my F25.
I have the sport / Variable, I am not sure if the whole rack has to be changed for that.
Mine may have to have one yet.
I have raised a case with BMW today, if I don't get satisfaction, they keep it.
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      11-08-2011, 11:50 AM   #7
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It does sound like they knew it had a problem. If so and they sent you out it a car with the steering likely to fail then someone should loose their job.
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      11-08-2011, 02:37 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Harplayr View Post
I wonder if it’s possible to upgrade to variable assist steering by changing out the module?
I had it on my E83 but didn’t order it on my F25.
Quote:
Originally Posted by johnbmw6 View Post
I have the sport / Variable, I am not sure if the whole rack has to be changed for that.
Mine may have to have one yet.
I have raised a case with BMW today, if I don't get satisfaction, they keep it.
The variable sport steering is rather "dumb". It uses a progressive rack and pinion with a increased ratio as you progress to the extreme travel of the wheel. I'm almost certain you would need a new rack to make this upgrade! The software would also probably have to be updated for the stability control and active headlights not to freak out!
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      11-08-2011, 05:01 PM   #9
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Quote:
Originally Posted by johnbmw6 View Post
Many thanks for this information Lotus7, my bmw engineer says he has now found a fault code "SIMILAR" to the "Recall code", and he has sent this info to BMW, he says he has to now wait for the reply and recommendations of BMW( which could take a week or more
I have just got off the phone to Customer services and asked for them to assist in hurrying things up, awaiting their return call.
The engineer seems to think he can just replace the "Module" if that proves the fault.
He has clearewd the fault code, but like myself thinks it could just return at any time.
My unit is Post september with sport steering mode, build date week 40.
Johnbmw6, did they give you the error code they found.
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      11-08-2011, 07:39 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by johnbmw6 View Post
MODULE?
How long would it take and is there a diagram of parts please, thanks.
Don't know how accurate it is but try ths for a parts diagram.
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/
Enter site then select you car model leftborvright hand drive and build month.
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      11-09-2011, 03:50 AM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Hutt View Post
Johnbmw6, did they give you the error code they found.
NO TBH I have not asked for it yet, I will today though.

UPDATE: fault code: 4823A1

BMW have advised "Change Control Module" however the Part numbers here can't be found on the system nor can the complete Steering rack Part numbers!!!!!, they say it's TOO NEW!!!!
So nothing ordered today.
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