BMW M2 Steering Column Lock: Causes and Solutions

Hey there! Had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW M4 last summer. I have some experience working on cars, but mostly basic maintenance stuff. The symptoms were exactly the same, steering column locked up completely and threw an error code. Took it to my regular workshop, and it turned out to be just a loose connection in the wiring harness for the steering column adjustment motor. The mechanic found a damaged plug that was causing intermittent connection issues. Total repair was 95 Euro to replace the connector and secure everything properly. Can you share if you're getting any specific error messages on your dash? Also, did this start happening suddenly or was it gradual? This info would help figure out if you're dealing with the same problem I had. By the way, if it helps to know, my cousin has a 2023 M3 and it's been rock solid with no steering issues so far. Hoping your fix is as simple as mine was!

Thanks for sharing your experience! My car's at 99894 KM and just had its service last month. The error message I'm getting is "Steering Column Adjustment Malfunction" with a yellow warning light. It happened completely out of nowhere while I was adjusting the steering wheel position yesterday. Really hoping it's just a connection issue like yours and not something more serious with the motor itself. The steering still works fine for driving, it's just the adjustment that's completely frozen. Going to book it in at the dealership since it's still under warranty, but wanted to get some real-world feedback first.

Hey again! Thanks for providing those details about your situation. Yeah, that's exactly the same warning message I got on my M4 when it happened. Since you mentioned it occurred while actively adjusting the wheel, that's actually a really good sign, it's very similar to how mine failed. In my case, the loose connector would occasionally make contact when moving the steering column, which is what triggered the system to shut down and throw that warning. Since you're still under warranty and it's a 2023 model, definitely take it to the dealer. Don't be too worried though, these systems have built-in fail-safes that lock everything in place when they detect any issues, which is why your steering wheel is frozen but still works fine for driving. Just a heads up based on my experience, make sure to tell them exactly what you were doing when it happened. The fact that it occurred during adjustment helps narrow down the diagnostic process. My repair was pretty straightforward once they identified the connection issue, but I know these newer models have slightly different wiring layouts than my 2021. Let us know what they find! I'm curious to see if it's the same connector problem I had. These BMWs are generally really solid, but sometimes these little electrical gremlins pop up.

Thanks so much for all that detailed information! That's really reassuring to hear it's likely just a connection issue. I've booked it in for tomorrow morning at the dealer and I'll definitely mention that it happened during adjustment, just like yours did. It's funny how these high-tech features sometimes have such simple fixes. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's helped calm my nerves about the whole situation. I was worried I'd be looking at some major repair bill or a completely failed motor system. I'll update the thread once I get it back from the dealer and let everyone know what they found. These kinds of conversations are exactly why I love being part of the BMW community, always getting real, helpful advice from people who've been through similar issues!