BMW Steering Controls Failure Sparks Multiple Errors

Hey! I had a similar issue with my 2015 BMW 5 Series Hybrid last winter. The symptoms match exactly what you're describing. In my case, it turned out to be a faulty cable connection in the steering wheel, it's called the clock spring assembly. This part basically maintains electrical connections between your steering wheel controls and the car's computer while you turn the wheel. When I took it to the garage, they first ran diagnostics which showed multiple system errors, just like yours. The mechanic explained that when this connection fails, it affects everything from airbag systems to driver assistance features because they all run through that same cable assembly. I wouldn't put this repair off, it's actually a safety concern since it affects your airbag system. The repair itself wasn't too complex; they replaced the entire clock spring unit. The job took about 3-4 hours total. While it wasn't cheap, it completely resolved all the issues, and everything's been working perfectly since then. Just make sure you get it checked at a shop that specializes in BMW electronics, as they'll have the right diagnostic tools for these systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! This is really helpful, sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. Quick question: do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? And has everything stayed working properly since then, or have you noticed any other electrical gremlins popping up? Just want to know what I might be in for!

Hey again! Just wanted to update you, I actually got this fixed last week and it cost me 95 € to repair the cable connection in the steering wheel. Turns out it was exactly what I suspected in my first reply, that pesky clock spring assembly giving us grief! The multifunction steering wheel error is completely gone now and all systems are working perfectly. No more warning lights, driver assistance is back online, and the airbag system is all clear. Such a relief to have everything working properly again! I can honestly say I haven't had a single electrical gremlin show up since the repair. All the buttons on the steering wheel work like a charm, and the car feels just like new. Given how many systems were affected, I'm actually surprised the fix was this straightforward and relatively affordable. If you're still having the issue, I'd definitely recommend getting it sorted soon. It's really not worth dealing with all those warning messages and disabled features. Plus, with it being a safety thing because of the airbag system, better safe than sorry, right?

Thanks for all the details! I actually went ahead and got it fixed yesterday based on your advice. You were spot on, it was the clock spring assembly. The mechanic I found was really thorough and explained everything clearly. Got charged a bit more than you, around 120 for parts and labor, but honestly, it was worth every penny. The best part? All those annoying warning lights are gone, and my steering wheel controls are working perfectly again. Such a relief to have everything back to normal! The mechanic also checked all the other electrical systems while they were at it, just to be sure there weren't any other issues lurking around. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, helped me avoid a lot of unnecessary stress and probably saved me from getting overcharged at some other places I was considering. I'll definitely keep this mechanic's contact for future reference. Thanks again for helping me sort this out!