Retrofit Instructions
Installing a Sport Heated Steering Wheel - Leather, Multifunction
BMW X5, E53, 2001 – 2006
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Disclaimer:
This set of instructions is simply a guide on how I installed my own heated steering wheel. These
instructions are not meant for sale nor are they intended for vehicle or parts resellers. All pictures and
information is the copyright of the owner and may not be copied in any part or whole. If you choose to
follow these instructions for your own vehicle, I am not liable for any defects or damages that may occur
as a direct or indirect result of this document. Any work done on your vehicle is at your own risk. If you
have any questions please contact arvi.singh@shaw.ca
Instructions written by Arvi Singh
Note: Check to see if your vehicle is prewired
Most E53’s are already pre-wired for heated steering although the necessary switching relay is not
installed and the required steering column switch is not installed. Check FUSE 29 in the glovebox
compartment. If there is a 10amp fuse in place, your vehicle is already pre-wired. If no fuse is present,
you can still install this steering wheel with an alternative power source switched through the ignition. Be
sure to put an in-line 10amp fuse before proceeding with this method.
Tools Required:
Phillips & Flat head screwdriver, Torx T-20, Torx T-27, 16mm socket & Torque wrench with 6” extension.
Parts Required:
SPORT STEERING WHEEL, HEATED,
LEATHER, MULTIFUNCTION.
BMW PART # 323-067-688-33
LIST PRICE $697.50
AIRBAG MODULE, DRIVERS SIDE
(AS SHOWN IN PIC ABOVE)
BMW PART # 323-067-629-61
LIST PRICE $795.00
NOTE: YOU MAY NOT REQUIRE A NEW
AIRBAG MODULE IF YOU CURRENTLY
HAVE THE ABOVE STEERING WHEEL.
STEERING COLUMN SWITCH
BMW PART # 613-183-790-91
LIST PRICE $108.81
NOTE: YOU MAY NOT REQUIRE A NEW
STEERING COLUMN SWITCH IF YOURS
CURRENTLY HAS THE 2 PIN SOCKET FOR
THE HEATED STEERING. SEE PAGE 5 OF
THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
CONTACT RELAY MODULE WHT/GRN
BMW PART # 61-368-373-700
LIST PRICE $11.38
Retrofit instructions: Installing a Sport Heated Steering Wheel, BMW X5 E39 2001 – 06
2
If you currently have the sport steering wheel as
pictured, turn it sideways as shown and turn the
ignition off.
IMPORTANT:
REMOVE AIRBAG FUSE FROM THE
FUSEPANEL IN THE GLOVEBOX.
Failing to do so may cause the airbag to explode in
your face and/or cause the airbag light to come on
in the dash. This will require resetting the light at
the dealer.
Insert a narrow screwdriver in the hole behind the
steering wheel. You should feel a spring action to
release one side of the airbag. Do the same on the
other side to release the airbag completely.
This step will take some patience until you find the
correct spot to push in. The screwdriver should be
inserted at the same angle as the wiper stalk
towards the center of the steering.
This should release the airbag and you should be
able to remove it safely.
Retrofit instructions: Installing a Sport Heated Steering Wheel, BMW X5 E39 2001 – 06
3