Just helped a friend replace his plugs on a 02 BMW. Now I want to tackle it myself.

Base on previous post

Tools:
-a flat head screw driver,
-6mm allen wrench,
-10mm socket(3/8 prefered) and wrench and a couple extensions,
-5/8 spark plug socke
-torque wrench @ 28 lbs
-6 NGK Iridium (pregap)

Instructions:
first take off the plastic engine cover (4 10mm bolts) and the little piece of cover (flat head screw driver for this) then you will need to use the allen wrench for the coil packs.

work on 1 at a time, unplugging it and then unscrewing it. then pull it straight out.

then use the 5/8 sparkplug socket and extensions and remove the plug.

repeat the steps for the rest.

the rears can be done with out taking any thing off.

you just need to snake your arm where you can. a flash light and mirror help here if you have them.


MY QUESTION:
Does the battery need to be disconnected?

Anything to keep in mind or I'm leaving out?

 

thats it. Not that hard. dont need to disconect the battery (even though its recomended for any thing you do)

 

Thanks. It'll be my project this Sunday

 

Finally got around to it. replaced it today @ 61128. It wasn't hard except for the one located in the back. overall took 45 mins.

I feel so accomplished.

 

If you managed to tackle this one, you also could install the header yourself.

 

i changed my spark plugs about two weeks ago, after seafoaming my car... man were the rear ones dirty... for those going to attempt it, i used a 3 inch and 6 inch extension combined (overall 9 inches) to do the rears. it made it a lot easier b/c they had a hose in the way of the wrench when i was trying to unscrew the spark plugs, the extra 3 inches made the wrench closer to the firewall but that area was empty enough to actually move

 

What if you don't have a torque wrench? Is there a way to describe how tight they should be. I know its not lug nut tight.

 

I have never used a torque wrench to install spark plugs. Yes, one could be used I guess, but I've always done it by feel.

 

Its a feel. Once you have done it enough you just kinda know. I would say finger tight, then 1/4 to 1/2 turn or so on top of that. Just dont over tighten them

 

Thats what I figured. I've done em before, but its been a few years.

 

Only thing I woud add is coat the threads of the new plugs with anti-seize compound. If you ever do the plugs again, you'll be glad you did!

 

Good tip. Forgot to add that.