32 00 ... Information on Replacing Steering Gear after Accident Damage

32 00 ... Information on replacing steering gear after accident damage

Situation:
In the event of accidents or driving conditions similar to accidents, shocklike loads can cause different types of damage to steering gears. When a steering gear is externally undamaged, it is sometimes only possible to identify damage with great difficulty and with great effort. However, damage of this nature poses an unacceptable risk to the vehicle because it can result in failure of the steering system.

Because of the disproportionate amount of effort involved, it is generally not sensible to check thoroughly all the individual components of the steering gear and as an alternative it is necessary to take into account other components which can be checked more easily.

Procedure:
The steering gear must be replaced if one or more of the following points apply:
A. Visible or noticeable damage to the steering gear
- Version with electric steering gear (EPS): Examine in particular the control unit with all plug connections for damage and hairline cracks.
B. Unacceptable torque increase and jamming when the steering gear is turned from lock to lock (without hydraulic/electrical assistance)
C. Permissible tolerances exceeded during axle/wheel alignment (include alignment record with invoice/report if necessary)
D. Fire damage
E. Damage, permanent deformation or fractures to:
- Wheel rims in the event of a negative result from the wheel/axle alignment check
- Spring struts, steering knuckles, wheel carriers
- Control arms
- struts or diagonal members or stabilizers with this function
- Body-side screwing/bolting points for wheel guide/control components
- Front axle support
- Pitman arms
- Tie rods
- Steering gear fixtures
- Steering Column

This guideline is binding for all accident repairs to BMW and MINI vehicles.

NOTE:
If the steering gear replacement work which is required for safety reasons is refused by the customer or an insurance company for cost reasons, a memorandum to that effect must be drawn up and countersigned by the party bearing the costs of the accident repair.
For corresponding specimen of memorandum, refer to SI 320188(828) Appendix 1.

IMPORTANT: The vehicle's type approval will be invalidated whenever the function of any of its safety components is compromised.