Original BMW Steering Wheel Slip Ring (Airbag Clockspring) for BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, M5, and M6 (2002–2008)

The Original BMW slip ring, which BMW names a coil spring cartridge, is the coiled electrical connector inside the steering wheel that links the driver's airbag, horn, and wheel-mounted controls to the car's wiring harness on 2002–2008 BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, M5, and M6 models. It keeps those circuits connected while the wheel turns freely from lock to lock. The part belongs to the SRS system and carries the circuit for the steering wheel airbag. A failing unit usually shows up in one of three ways. The airbag warning light comes on because the connection to the driver's airbag is lost. Radio or cruise control buttons on the wheel stop responding. The horn goes quiet when the circuit through the clockspring breaks.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

This number entered production in September 2006 and replaces the earlier 61-31-0-422-231. BMW marks the change as exchangeable retrospectively, so the current cartridge also suits cars built before 2006 that left the factory with the older number. A second cross-reference, 61-31-0-152-682, also points to this part. The same cartridge serves the E60 sedan and E61 wagon, the E63 coupe and E64 convertible, and the E65, E66, and E67 7 Series. BMW gives its weight as 148 g, and the part is made in the Czech Republic.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (genuine part)
• Part number: 61-31-9-129-499
• BMW part name: coil spring cartridge (steering wheel slip ring)
• Weight: 148 g (0.3 lb)
• Production start: September 2006
• Replaces 61-31-0-422-231, exchangeable retrospectively
• Also cross-referenced to 61-31-0-152-682
• Made in the Czech Republic
• Sold individually as one piece
• Warranty: 24 months on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

My car came with 61-31-0-422-231. Will this part fit?
Yes. BMW lists this number as the retrospectively exchangeable replacement for 61-31-0-422-231, so it fits cars that were built with the earlier part.

What signs point to a failed clockspring?
The usual signs are an airbag warning light, steering wheel buttons that stop working, and a horn that no longer sounds.

Fitment & Compatibility

Compare your production year and trim against the table below. PMB Performance has spent over 20 years matching parts to vehicles and can verify this against your VIN.