BMW Z3 Electric Steering Column Failure, Repair Help Needed

Hey there! I have some experience working on BMWs, and I faced a similar issue with my 2002 BMW M3 (had a few BMWs before, including a 5 series). I also had problems with the power steering column adjustment, totally frustrating when it stops working! Took it to my regular workshop and they found it was just a loose connection in the wiring harness near the steering column. Apparently, these connections can get wonky over time. The fix wasn't too complicated, they had to remove some panels, clean the connections, and secure them properly. Cost me around 95 Euro in total. Before I can give you more specific advice, could you share: Are you getting any specific error codes? Does the motor make any noise when you try to adjust it? Have you noticed any intermittent problems before it completely failed? Would really help to know these details to see if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's at 41697 KM and just had its latest service last month. Been having a similar problem, and the motor doesn't make any sound when I try to adjust it. No intermittent issues before, it just stopped working suddenly. Getting error code E345 on the system. Hoping it's just a wiring issue like yours was, rather than having to replace the whole mechanism. These older Z3s can be tricky with electrical stuff!

Hey again! Thanks for those details about your Z3. After reading about your specific symptoms, I'm actually thinking your issue might be a bit different from what I dealt with on my M3. The fact that you're getting absolutely no sound from the motor, combined with that E345 code and the sudden failure, reminds me of when my motor unit actually failed rather than just having loose connections like I initially thought. You know what's interesting? Even though my first repair was just that wiring fix I mentioned, I ended up having the same problem again about six months later. Turned out the motor unit itself was shot and needed replacement. The lack of any motor noise is usually a dead giveaway, at least the motor in mine made some clicking sounds before it completely died. Hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you might be looking at replacing the motor unit. On my M3, it was a bigger job than just fixing wiring, took about 3 hours of labor plus parts. But hey, at least once it's done, it should last you quite a while. These BMW electrical systems from the early 2000s can be quirky, but they're generally pretty solid once properly fixed. Want me to share what the replacement process was like on mine? Might help you know what to expect if you end up needing the same repair.

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up. Yeah, that's exactly what I was afraid of, a complete motor unit failure. It's definitely not the news I wanted to hear, but I appreciate your honesty about it. Would love to hear more about the replacement process you went through. I'll probably start looking for a reputable shop that has experience with these older BMWs, since it sounds like a pretty involved job. At least now I know what I'm likely dealing with and can plan accordingly. It's really helpful hearing from someone who's been through the same thing. These old Z3s are great cars, but they sure can throw some expensive surprises at you! I'll probably get it looked at next week and see what they say.