Recommended replacement interval for the part category Spark plug : 18 month / 30000 km

Important!

This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 316 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 i … View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

How to change spark plug on BMW E46 [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

All the parts you need to replace – Spark Plug for 3 Saloon (E46) and other BMW models

Spark plug

        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (105 hp)
      
        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (105 hp)
      
        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (143 hp)
      
        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (115 hp)
      
        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (115 hp)
      
        Spark plug for 3 Saloon (E46) Petrol (136 hp)

Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. List of the tools you'll need:

                        High-temperature anti-seize lubricant
                      
                        Spark plug socket # 16
                      
                        Ratchet wrench
                      
                        Torque wrench
                      
                        Round-nose pliers
                      
                        Fender cover

Buy tools

Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. AUTODOC recommends:

The replacement procedure is the same for all spark plugs.
All work should be done with the engine stopped.

Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. Use the following procedure:

Step 1

Open the bonnet.
Step 2

Use a fender protection cover to prevent damaging paintwork and plastic parts of the car.

Step 3

Remove the spark plug wire connectors from the spark plug wells. Use round-nose pliers.

Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. Professionals recommend:
Be careful to avoid damaging spark plug wires.Remember the sequence of the spark plug wires connectors.
Step 4

Unscrew the spark plugs. Use the spark plug socket #16. Use a ratchet wrench.
Step 5

Take out the spark plugs.
Step 6

Apply a thin layer of a special high temperature anti-seize lubricant to the threads of the new spark plugs.
Step 7

Install the new spark plugs into their mounting seats. Use the spark plug socket #16.
Step 8

Screw new spark plugs and tighten them. Use the spark plug socket #16. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 27 nm torque.

Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. AUTODOC experts recommend:
Don't tighten the plugs with excessive force. Exceeding tightening torque can damage the thread connection. Be careful when working with a spark plug wrench. Its skewing can cause damage to the threaded connection.
Step 9

Install the spark plug wire connectors into the spark plug wells. Make sure you hear a click indicating that it is locked in place.

AUTODOC recommends:
Replacement: spark plugs – BMW E46. Follow the installation steps.
Step 10

Remove the fender protection cover. Close the hood.

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