2007 550i shows the following in the instrument cluster and on the i-drive. I have seen wildly different answers while searching. Some saying you can just get a reprogram, others say you need to replace the entire steering column, or that you can just replace the lock mechanism. From what I have found, this appears this was a very common issue in the 3-series, but not as common in the 5.

Despite the warning the car starts fine. I have turned it on and off probably 20 times since this first started. Could it just be a sign that the battery is on its way out? This is the original factory battery.

If you have had this issue, what did you do to resolve it? If you had to fix it out of warranty, how much did it cost, as I am out of warranty as well?

Thanks!

 

I don't know about the fix but just incase, this is from the BMW technical information system.

Note: Hidden service function in an emergency.
In the event of a fault in the lock mechanism, there is a hidden service function to switch on terminal R. This prevent "breakdowns". ne Press and hold the START/STOP button for 10 seconds.

 

Thanks for this. I tried this, but it didn't do anything for me. Perhaps because I can already start the car? Do you know if this will allow me to stat the car if it does completely fail?

 

According to BMW, yes. This is if you can't get it to start and the steering wheel is locked. Won't do you any good now, just in case of an emergency.

 

I think you can replace part number 8, it's only two bolt, but tricky one. it's about 200 bucks plus couple bolts. http://parts.bmwofsouthatlanta.com/p...306786922.html

 

I had the same thing happen on my '06 550i. At first it was orange and I was able to start the car, but once it turns red, it won't let you start the car. It won't even crank. I had to get the car on a flatbed over to the dealer.

They tried updating the software/flashing the module first, which took care of things for a bout a week or two, then it started doing the same thing, orange warnings. I didn't wait for it to become red again. I had the lock replaced with a new one.

You DO NOT have to replace the entire steering column, that's only on the 3 series I believe. On the 5 series you can replace the lock only.

My suggestion would be to try flashing the module first and if that doesn't help, change it.

 

Thanks phlfly and Cinder for the replies. I feel a lot better knowing I don't need to replace the entire steering column ($$$). $200 + labor from an indy shop is far more palatable.

I am wondering if flashing the module will do the trick. The odd thing is, I've only had the red light and warning, but it starts right as rain every time. Part of me thinks I'm playing with fire, having not had this looked at yet though. At this point, it's almost a guarantee that it becomes disabled when I absolutely have to be somewhere.

 

I have changed this particular item but the light is still on. What can I do next?

 

From what I have read, you may need to get it reprogrammed.

I had the warning and the car started up several times with no problems. Now the car will no longer start and it's stuck in park, I cannot move it and it's a challenge getting it towed (AWD).

Any steps on clearing the codes will be greatly appreciated.

 

I currently have a 2007 550i e60 and this is my first bmw and I went to start the vehicle and low and behold no crank no start. I changed the battery, still saying it has steering wheel lock malfunction. I am a DIY type of person. Does anyone know what exactly needs to be done to fix this problem?