12 12 011 Replacing all spark plugs (N53, N54, N63)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2014 BMW X6, 2013 BMW X6, 2012 BMW X6, 2011 BMW X6, and 2010 BMW X6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

12 1 220 , see 12 1 220 SPARK PLUG WRENCH WAF 14 MM BIHEXAL .
12 1 230 , see 12 1 230 INSTALLATION AID .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Switch off ignition.
Remove ignition coils , see 12 13 511 Replacing ignition coils (N63) .

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

Clean spark plug 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° bend.

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

Fig 1: Identifying Spark Plug Special Tool (12 1 220)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

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.

Installation note:

Screw the spark plug hand-tight with special tool 12 1 230 into the cylinder head plug thread to the limit position.

Fig 2: Identifying Spark Plug Special Tool (12 1 230)

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 12 12 2AZ. .

Attach new spark plug (1) to special tool 12 1 230.

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

Fig 3: Installing Spark Plug With Special Tool (12 1 230)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.