Bent steering column? (with respect to the dashboard)

[D.Martijn]

Hey guys,

So I had to replace the timing belt etc on my uncles iX Touring, when driving to my workshop to replace everything I couldn't help but notice the steering wheel was sitting at an angle. (so not clocked but at an angle compared to the dashboard)
Here are some pictures to further visualize the problem. (both are airbag cars - I just swapped mine to non airbag wheel, steering column is still stock)

His iX Touring, you can see the left side of the steering wheel sits closer to the dash


My iX Touring


Anyone seen this before? I tried loosening the most forward bolt and pulling the steering wheel but that barley changed anything.
Could it be the full steering column that's bent? bracket Home in this diagram?

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=AG95-EUR-01-1990-E30-BMW-325ix&diagId=32_0472

Thanks!

[tomstin]

When you turn the steering wheel, is it a consistent circle as it turns on that angle or does the wheel change its arc? My guess is the steering wheel itself somehow bent at the base and the steering shaft itself is fine.

[D.Martijn]

When you turn the steering wheel, is it a consistent circle as it turns on that angle or does the wheel change its arc? My guess is the steering wheel itself somehow bent at the base and the steering shaft itself is fine.

The car is unfortunately not at my shop any more. I did ask him to check this as well.. I guess we'll wait and see.. :)