12 12 011 Remove And Install Or Replace All Spark Plugs (N12)

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

IMPORTANT: Wear safety 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 an extension with joint.

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.

Installation note:

First screw spark plugs into engine finger-tight with special tool 12 1 220 and extension with joint.

Then tighten spark plug with torque wrench, special tool 12 1 220 and extension with joint.

Observe tightening torque.

Tightening torque 12 12 2AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Spark Plugs With Special Tool (12 1 220)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.