BMW 318i steering column problem - is this common?
We've owned our BMW 318i since 2004, when we bought it new. We recently had a problem with the ignition key not turning in the ignition keyhole next to the steering wheel. The steering wheel itself then became locked, so we had to call out the AA and the car ultimately had to be towed away.
The BMW service station have apparently had to replace the steering column and we understand the bill is likely to come to something in excess of £1,450.
We wonder whether this is a known problem, whether BMW might reasonably be asked to contribute towards the cost, or whether the car is simply too old for such an approach to be worthwhile.
The BMW service station have apparently had to replace the steering column and we understand the bill is likely to come to something in excess of £1,450.
We wonder whether this is a known problem, whether BMW might reasonably be asked to contribute towards the cost, or whether the car is simply too old for such an approach to be worthwhile.
Asked on 8 July 2022 by Peter Jackson
Answered by
Dan Powell
We've received a number of steering column complaints for this version of the 318i. Sadly I don't think BMW UK or the dealer that sold it to you will contribute anything towards the cost of this repair.
Most offers of 'goodwill payments' stop when the car reaches 5 or 6 years of age, I've never heard of a case (other than a mandatory DVSA recall) where a carmaker has paid for a repair on a car that's 18 or 19 years old.
If you experience any further issues with the car then I would suggest taking it to an independent BMW specialist. The quality of the work will be just as good as the BMW dealer but the cost of servicing and repair will be around 30% less.
Most offers of 'goodwill payments' stop when the car reaches 5 or 6 years of age, I've never heard of a case (other than a mandatory DVSA recall) where a carmaker has paid for a repair on a car that's 18 or 19 years old.
If you experience any further issues with the car then I would suggest taking it to an independent BMW specialist. The quality of the work will be just as good as the BMW dealer but the cost of servicing and repair will be around 30% less.
Tags:
steering locks
steering wheel
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