BMW X5 Steering Wheel Controls Dead, Airbag Warning Alert

Hey there! Had the exact same issue with my 2014 BMW X3 last year. The steering wheel control failure was linked to a damaged clock spring (also called a spiral cable) in the steering column. This part is crucial as it maintains electrical connections between the steering wheel and the car's computer while you turn the wheel. When mine failed, I got similar warnings, airbag light, non-working horn, and dead steering controls. The clock spring replacement was definitely necessary, as it's a safety-critical component that handles airbag deployment signals. Had it done at a different garage since my regular one was booked solid. Quick tip: If you're hearing any weird clicking sounds when turning the wheel, that's another telltale sign of a failing clock spring. It's not a complex repair for someone who knows BMWs, but it needs proper diagnostic equipment to reset the system afterward. Based on your symptoms, I'd bet money it's the same issue. Get it checked soon since it affects safety systems.

Hey, thanks for sharing your experience! That really sounds spot on with what I'm dealing with. That clock spring diagnosis makes total sense with all the symptoms. Mine's doing pretty much everything you described. Just wondering, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? And has everything been working fine since you got it fixed, or did any other issues pop up? I want to get an idea of what I'm looking at cost-wise and make sure this is a proper long-term fix. Really appreciate your help with this!

Hey again! Just wanted to follow up, it turned out to be simpler and cheaper than my clock spring issue after all! Finally got my X3 looked at, and the mechanic found a loose cable connection in the steering wheel. Total repair came to 95 € which was a huge relief compared to what I initially thought it might cost. Everything's working perfectly now, all the steering wheel controls are back to normal, and those annoying warning lights for the assistance systems and airbag have disappeared. No more issues since the fix, so looks like it was just that dodgy connection causing all the drama. Honestly, I'm just glad it wasn't the clock spring like mine was last time. Sometimes the simple fixes are the best ones! Let me know if you need anything else, happy to help!

Thanks for the update! I actually just got back from getting my X5 checked out. You were really helpful with your advice, but my issue turned out to be different. Had to pay quite a bit more, around 450 for the repair. Turns out there was a faulty control module in the steering wheel that needed replacing. The mechanic I found was great though. Really took the time to explain everything and showed me the damaged part. Been driving for a few days now and all the controls are working perfectly. No more warning lights either, which is such a relief! Funny how these things can look similar but end up having different causes. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it helped me know what questions to ask when I took it in. At least it's all sorted now and I've found a trustworthy mechanic in the process!