Shaking steering wheel in BMW – what is the reason and how to fix it?

BMW driver’s question

I recently heard disturbing noises coming out when moving the steering wheel on my BMW E60. I’m having a hard time locating where the noises are coming from, resembling rubbing rubber parts. I have been searching the Internet for the cause of the symptoms occurring, but have not found a definite answer. I would like to add that the noises are not heard from the start of driving only after some time.

Has your service perhaps come into contact with such a case?

I am sending a link with a video perfectly illustrating my problem:

The problem affected a BMW E60 5 Series model, but it happens in other models as well.

BM Cars service response

The problem you described is common in E60 and E90 models, it also happens sometimes in E87. The rubbing or squeaking noise when turning the steering wheel comes from underneath the steering wheel itself, and resembles the rubbing of plastic parts or crackling leather. The noises usually come from the steering wheel’s slip ring, through which information is transmitted from the multifunction steering wheel to the vehicle.

In such a case, it is not helpful to try to “lubricate” the components under the steering wheel, which usually ends up leaking oily substances into the driver’s lap. The eventual replacement of the steering ring is associated in these models with the replacement of the entire “control center” of the steering column, which also includes the levers for the turn signals, windshield wipers and possibly cruise control.

Selecting the right one should be done using the vehicle’s VIN number.

We will then avoid confusion in the selection of the part – depending on the vehicle’s factory equipment.
After replacement, it is necessary to code the new part (assignment to the vehicle VIN number). Attempting to replace the “control center” with a used – operational component from another vehicle is not always successful, and if the component is not coded, you may end up with a lack of traction control in the vehicle or damage to the DSC controller.

However, we suggest in each case individual diagnostics of the vehicle to confirm the above case or find another cause of the noises coming out.

We invite you to take advantage of our service.

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Photo: By The Car Spy (2006 BMW M5)[CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons