Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Read out fault memory of DME control unit
Turn off ignition
Follow instructions for disconnecting and connecting battery
Disconnect battery negative lead from battery and lay to one side
Remove LOWER SECTION OF MICROFILTER HOUSING
Remove ACOUSTIC COVER
Remove CYLINDER HEAD COVER
Remove front UNDERBODY PROTECTION
N84 only:

Remove pedestrian protection

Unlock fasteners (1) from below and slide upwards approx. 10 mm.

Unlock locks (2) in direction of arrow.

Remove cover (3).

Fig 1: Unlocking Locks

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock plug (1) and remove.

Unlock control unit (2) and raise approx. 5 cm.

Fig 2: Identifying Plug And Control Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock plug on control unit and disconnect.

Unlock tab (1). Pull contact carrier (2) in direction of arrow out of housing.

Unlock and disconnect all plug connections of ignition coil wiring harness section in electronics box.

Fig 3: Pulling Contact Carrier Out Of Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.