BMW workshops are being urged to check their wheel alignment equipment following the introduction of new requirements covering steering wheel level measurement and alignment software.
Under BMW bulletin SI 03 01 26 (270), an approved wireless steering wheel level and up-to-date alignment software are now required as part of every wheel alignment.
The requirement is already in effect and applies to workshops using Beissbarth wheel alignment equipment.
However, there is a key deadline approaching: if equipment is not updated to meet the new requirements, workshops will no longer be able to align new BMW models from July 2027.
For workshops using Beissbarth equipment, the action required will depend on whether they currently operate a KDS3D or older KDSII system.
Beissbarth KDS3D systems can be upgraded
Existing Beissbarth KDS3D wheel alignment systems can be upgraded to meet the latest BMW requirements.
Straightset, a UK supplier of Beissbarth workshop equipment, can provide the required BMW software update together with the approved wireless steering wheel level measurement system.
The KDS3D upgrade includes:
- Installation of the latest BMW programme by a GEA-accredited engineer
- Simplified vehicle selection by chassis code for vehicles from 2024 production onwards, including the new BMW iX3
- An approved digital steering wheel level gauge
The digital steering wheel level system provides an objective measurement of the steering wheel position and continuously monitors it throughout the alignment process.
The measured steering wheel position is also recorded in the inspection report, providing clear documentation and greater traceability of the alignment procedure.
KDSII systems cannot be upgraded
Workshops operating older Beissbarth KDSII equipment face a different situation, as existing KDSII systems cannot be upgraded to meet the latest BMW requirements.
For these workshops, Beissbarth offers the BMW-approved Q.Lign 3D wheel alignment system as a new-generation replacement.
The Q.Lign includes the digital Bluetooth steering wheel level gauge as part of its standard specification and has been designed to make the BMW wheel alignment process more efficient and traceable.
Features include digital steering wheel level measurement and monitoring, automatic ride-height measurement, BMW-specific software and vehicle specifications, and simplified vehicle selection by chassis code.
Technicians are provided with real-time measurement and adjustment information, which can be displayed on a tablet, monitor, PC or smartphone.
The system also features wireless, battery-powered sensor heads and allows measurement and adjustment to be carried out at any lift height.
PDF reports can be accessed across a dealership network, providing a digital record of completed alignment work.
Automatic ride-height measurement also removes the need to manually enter height values or repeatedly load and unload the vehicle with weights during the measurement process.
Workshops advised to check equipment ahead of July 2027
Although BMW’s updated wheel alignment requirement is already in effect, the July 2027 deadline means workshops need to ensure their equipment is capable of supporting new BMW models beyond that date.
For Beissbarth KDS3D users, this means upgrading the existing system with the latest BMW software and approved wireless steering wheel level measurement equipment.
For KDSII users, replacement equipment will be required, with the BMW-approved Beissbarth Q.Lign providing the current replacement option.
Straightset is advising BMW workshops and dealerships to review their existing wheel alignment equipment now to establish whether an upgrade or replacement will be required ahead of July 2027.
Further information and advice on KDS3D upgrades and BMW-approved Q.Lign systems is available from Straightset.