Steering Angle Sensor

[Geoff]

A BMW dealer quoted me $1186 (USD) to replace the steering angle sensor on my 2000 Z3. Is this a fair price?

Is there a way to bypass the steering angle sensor so the warning light on the dash turns off? Can I unplug the sensor?

With the exception of the illuminated warning light on the dash, there is absolutely no difference in the performance or handling of the car when the steering angle sensor works or does not work.

My Z3 has 94,000 miles. It has been problematic in the two years I have owned it. In addition to the steering angle sensor, the trunk lid wiring shorted, the power door/trunk lock stopped working, the air conditioner stopped working, and the rear seal in the transmission started leaking at the drive shaft. Whenever I repair a problem, another one happens. I am torn over this car. The body and interior are flawless. In fact, the BMW dealer who diagnosed the steering angle sensor said he has never seen one in such good condition.

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

 

[andyglym]

A BMW dealer quoted me $1186 (USD) to replace the steering angle sensor on my 2000 Z3. Is this a fair price?

Is there a way to bypass the steering angle sensor so the warning light on the dash turns off? Can I unplug the sensor?

With the exception of the illuminated warning light on the dash, there is absolutely no difference in the performance or handling of the car when the steering angle sensor works or does not work.

My Z3 has 94,000 miles. It has been problematic in the two years I have owned it. In addition to the steering angle sensor, the trunk lid wiring shorted, the power door/trunk lock stopped working, the air conditioner stopped working, and the rear seal in the transmission started leaking at the drive shaft. Whenever I repair a problem, another one happens. I am torn over this car. The body and interior are flawless. In fact, the BMW dealer who diagnosed the steering angle sensor said he has never seen one in such good condition.

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

@Geoff no mechanic but just googled it on Bimmers forum and one chap did his in 30 minutes. Found this on amazon, not sure but seems a bit high the quote? Others may be able to advise better.

 

[Brian4]

To replace the steering sensor the column has to come out as the sensor is fitted at the base of the column. If a new sensor is fitted it will have to be coded to the car as well so I would guess there is a fair bit of labour charges involved.

As the cars are getting on now I would imagine a lot of garages might have the equipment to code the sensor. It is a DIY job if you are mechanically minded.

@t-tony might be able to have some input into this.

bit of a video here also see part 2 of it as well

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxGFdIaxCks

 

[t-tony]

TBH I've never fitted one Brian, one of the lads at work did one on an X5 the other week and took him most of the morning.

Tony.

 

[Geoff]

Thanks to all for the feedback.