BMW 5 6 Series E60 E61 E63 Steering Wheel Column Adjustment Motor Drive 6956696

Description

BMW 5 6 Series E60 E61 E63 Steering Wheel Column Adjustment Motor Drive is an original component from the Steering Columns group, designed for BMW 5 and 6 series models of the E60, E61, E63, and E64 generations. It enables precise, electric adjustment of the steering column position, which translates into driving comfort and repeatable steering wheel positioning according to the driver’s preferences.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: 6956696
• Mark: BMW (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: 6956696
• Substitutable numbers: 67646956696, 6956696, 67646920710, 6920710, 12V-500051, 1-1717-01, EM
• Category: Steering Columns

Purpose and function in the steering system

The steering column motor is responsible for driving the adjustment of the column position in the vertical and/or horizontal plane, depending on the vehicle configuration. In BMW E60, E61, E63, and E64 vehicles, it works with the control module and the column mechanism, ensuring smooth movement and stable maintenance of the set steering wheel position while driving.

A functional motor is crucial for:

• proper operation of the electric steering column adjustment,
• comfortable steering wheel positioning for different drivers,
• correct integration with the seat and steering wheel memory settings (if present in the given configuration).

Compatibility and fit for BMW

The offered component comes from the BMW parts family and is intended for use in vehicles of this brand from the E60, E61, E63, and E64 series. This ensures factory-fit compatibility with the steering column structure, the correct operating range, and electrical compatibility with the vehicle’s wiring.

The motor is assigned to a specific OEM part number and has dedicated interchangeable numbers, which facilitates verification of compatibility with a specific equipment version. Before purchasing, it is worth comparing the markings with the vehicle data to ensure that the installed component will work with the existing adjustment system.

Condition, origin, and advantages of using a used part

The presented steering column motor is a used part, sourced from a dismantled BMW vehicle. Such components are a popular choice as an economical alternative to new parts, while maintaining the original design and compliance with the manufacturer’s factory standards.

Using an original, used motor allows you to:

• maintain the consistency of the steering system with BMW factory solutions,
• reduce repair costs compared to purchasing a new part,
• preserve the correct operating parameters of the column adjustment mechanism.

Installation and diagnostic tips

Replacing the steering column motor in a BMW E60, E61, E63, and E64 requires access to the area under the steering wheel and the removal of the appropriate covers. It is recommended that the installation be performed by an experienced mechanic or automotive electrician, who will verify the correctness of the electrical connection and calibrate the column position if required by the given system.

Typical symptoms of a faulty motor include lack of response to adjustment buttons, intermittent operation, jamming in one position, or steering system error messages. In such situations, replacing it with a functional unit is usually the fastest and most predictable service solution.

Expanding knowledge and selecting steering system components

To better understand how the entire steering system works, the cooperation of the column, gear, and power steering, as well as typical failure symptoms, it is worth consulting specialist materials. A practical discussion of the topic, along with examples of parts such as steering wheels and columns, can be found in the article Steering system and power steering – how it works and what breaks?, which will help in consciously planning repairs and diagnostics.

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the steering column area in your BMW and need other elements from the same group, such as adjustment mechanisms, housings, or complete column assemblies, check the available parts in the BMW Steering Columns category.