BMW 2 Series Steering Column Adjustment Problem Fixed

Hey there! I've got some experience with BMWs as I'm a low-level DIY mechanic. Had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW 3 series last year. The electric steering column adjustment stopped working completely, and I got an error message too. Took it to my regular workshop and turns out it was just a loose connection in the wiring harness near the steering column. They had to partially remove some trim pieces to access it, but it was a pretty straightforward fix. Cost me 95 Euro total, and they had it done in about an hour. Before you take it in though, could you share what exact error code you're getting? Also, are you hearing any unusual noises when trying to adjust the steering wheel? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had. Really familiar with these cars since I've owned both the 3 and 4 series, so happy to share more specific details once you provide that information!

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got the same error code showing up in my 2019 2 series (currently at 104834 KM). When trying to adjust the steering wheel, there's actually a faint clicking sound, which seems different from your situation. Had it serviced just last month but this issue started right after. I'll probably still take it to the shop to be safe, but it's good to know about the wiring harness possibility. Did your BMW give any warning signs before it completely stopped working? Just wondering if I should expect this to get worse quickly or if I have some time to schedule the repair.

Hey again! Thanks for the additional details about your 2 series. Actually, my situation started a bit differently than yours, I didn't have any clicking sounds before the failure. In my 3 series (which had about 98000 KM at the time), it just stopped working suddenly one morning without any warning signs. The clicking sound you're describing is interesting and definitely different from what I experienced. Since you mentioned it started right after your last service, I wonder if something got knocked loose during the work they did. Mine was a simple wiring issue, but that clicking noise you're hearing makes me think it could be something mechanical in the adjustment mechanism itself. From my experience with BMWs, when these electric adjustments start acting up, it's better to get them checked sooner rather than later. I wouldn't wait too long, these things can sometimes get worse quickly, and you don't want to end up with the steering wheel stuck in an awkward position like I almost did! Maybe worth giving the shop that did your recent service a call? Since the problem started right after their work, they might want to take a look at it under warranty. Just a thought based on my experience with these cars.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up! You've convinced me to get it checked out sooner rather than later. I'll definitely call the shop tomorrow since, like you said, it started right after their service. That's a really good point about it possibly being covered under their work warranty, hadn't thought of that! Really appreciate you sharing your experience with the 3 series. The fact that yours was different with no clicking sound and sudden failure makes me think you're right, this might be more of a mechanical issue than just loose wiring. Definitely don't want to risk having the steering wheel get stuck in a weird position! Guess I'll bite the bullet and book it in. Thanks again for all the helpful advice, it's always good to hear from someone who's dealt with these German cars before. I'll make sure to ask them specifically about the adjustment mechanism when I take it in.