12 13 009 Checking ignition coils (secondary coil): Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 BMW M Roadster, 2002 BMW M Coupe, 2001 BMW M Roadster, and 2001 BMW M Coupe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

12 7 040
12 7 041
12 7 042
12 7 043
12 7 045
12 7 046
12 7 050

Carry out secondary voltage check using test adapter 12 7 040.

IMPORTANT: Observe safety precautions:

Information on working on ignition system, refer to Working On Ignition System
Turn off ignition
Instructions on component testing, refer to Component Inspection
Breakerless ignition distribution
1. Engine must never be started after disconnection of the secondary circuit, i.e. disconnection of connectors on spark plugs and earth connection (terminal 4a).
2. There is dangerous high tension in or on, ignition leads, spark-plug connectors, spark plugs and ignition coil terminal 4
  CAUTION: approx. 40 kV high tension
3. terminal 1 wire from ignition coil to DME control unit
  CAUTION: approx. 350 V high tension at terminal 1
4. Battery as well as wires on alternator and starter may not be disconnected on a running engine.
Working instructions for ignition system, DME (digital motor electronics) and engine electrics, refer to 12 00... Working instructions for ignition system, DME (digital motor electronics) and engine electrics

Switch off ignition.

NOTE: The following checks can be carried out with the adapter kit:

Secondary voltage check
Comparison between ignition coils from different manufacturers
Ignition coil faults
Spark plug faults
Injection system faults

Fig 1: Identifying Adapter Kit
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Connect special tool 12 7 043 (connecting cable) to special tool 12 7 041 (single adapter).

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Checks on engines with single-spark ignition coils:
Special tool 12 7 041 (single adapter) in conjunction with special tool 12 7 045 for fitting onto ignition coil.

Fig 3: Identifying Special Tool 12 7 041

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove cover for ignition coils.