12 23 505 Replacing all glow elements (N57 D30 O/T 1)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

NOTE: When one or more glow elements are replaced, the preheating control service function must be started with the BMW diagnosis system before replacement and the "Security data record in the preheating control must be activated".

NOTE: If malfunctions have occurred at the glow elements, it is essential to check the safety fuse.
Switch off ignition.

NOTE: It is recommended to warm the engine up to operating temperature for easy removal of glow elements. In addition, spray glow element with DISASSEMBLY AGENT 5.1 and let it take effect for approx. 2 minutes. Removing glow elements from a cold engine may cause damage to the thread in the cylinder head.

IMPORTANT: Risk of burning! The use of gloves is mandatory!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
Remove INTAKE SILENCER HOUSING .
Remove ACOUSTIC COVER at rear.

Release screws (1).

Remove cable channel (2) from the cylinder head cover. To do this unlock and detach connectors (3) and (4).

Slide cable channel to one side.

Fig 1: Identifying Cable Channel, Connectors And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version 1:

Compress connector fastener (1) with special tool 12 2 300 and pull from glow elements.

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, the intake plenum is shown removed.

Fig 2: Compressing Connector Fastener

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version 2:

Pull connector (1) from glow element with special tool 11 1 480 .

Fig 3: Pulling Connector From Glow Element

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unscrew glow elements with special tool 11 6 050 .

Tightening torque 12 23 1AZ .

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, the intake plenum is shown removed.

Fig 4: Identifying Special Tool (11 6 050)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: If one or more glow elements are renewed, the preheating control service function must be performed using the diagnosis system after they are replaced.

Read out fault code memory in DDE control unit. Check stored fault message. Rectify fault. Delete fault memory.