12 12 011 Replacing all spark plugs

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

Switch off ignition.

REMOVE IGNITION COILS .

IMPORTANT: Wear safety goggles.
Oil and dirt particles may get into your eyes!

Clean spark connector slot with compressed air.

Remove dirt contamination from the spark plug shaft. The plug shaft must be cleaned with compressed air after the ignition coils have been removed but before the spark plugs have been dismounted. After removing the spark plugs, check the sealing surface again for dirt contamination and if necessary, clean with a damp cloth or again with compressed air.
NOTE: Deposits that are not removed according to instructions may enter the combustion chamber and lead to uncontrolled combustion. Remaining deposits in the area of the spark plug seal can lead to leaks and to the spark plugs coming loose during engine operation.
Do not grease/oil thread or use any graphite or copper grease. Adhere to the torque values of the packaging information or regulation.
NOTE: If these instructions are not followed, especially with regard to greasing, this may result in mechanical damage to the spark plug housing/thread. Spark plugs that are not tightened sufficiently lead to leaks and to the spark plugs coming loose during engine operation.

Unscrew spark plugs with special tool 12 1 220 and extension (1) with min. 8° kink.

Flexible ratchet extensions must always be used. If rigid mounting tools are used, there is a risk of insulator breakages.

NOTE: Also do not use a variable plug connection with locking capability as this also poses a risk of insulator breakages.

Fig 1: Tightening Spark Plugs With Torque Wrench, Special Tool (12 1 220)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Attach new spark plug (1) to special tool 12 1 230 (fitting aid for spark plug installation).

IMPORTANT: Do not let spark plugs fall into the spark plug shaft. This can lead to a reduction of the electrode gap and so impair the smooth running of the engine, especially in idle mode.

Fig 2: Identifying Spark Plug With Special Tool 12 1 130

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Screw the spark plug hand-tight with special tool 12 1 230 in to cylinder head plug thread as far as it will go.

Fig 3: Screwing Spark Plug With Special Tool 12 1 230 In To Cylinder Head

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Tighten the spark plugs with a torque wrench, special tool 12 1 220 and an extension with a minimum kink of 8°.

Flexible ratchet extensions must always be used. If rigid mounting tools are used, there is a risk of insulator breakages.

NOTE: Also do not use a variable plug connection with locking capability as this also poses a risk of insulator breakages.

Observe tightening torque.

Tightening torque: 23 Nm