How To Change Spark Plugs on an E46 BMW 330i 325i DIY

[@JosephRThamas]

I’ve learned so much from you 50’s kid. I couldn’t have owned an E46 without you.. thank you

[@giovannilegue2177]

for mf real bro😂the only big youtube channel that goes over basic stuff on the 46 50s kid is dope asf fs will be a legend in my book

[@petercawthorne5997]

Me too ! Legend

[@ciaranandrews975]

50’s kid saved me at least $3500 in labor at the euro shop with some 5 minute KZbin tutorials 😂

[@doreeb6314]

This is the most clear and simple instructions.

[@JoeMathew]

I wish everyone would just do this kind of maintenance videos - doesn't waste our time by showing anything unnecessary, but covers all the details! Very well done!

[@mikewilliams4947]

I like your style. Quick concise, great audio and clean tripod shots. Well done sir! Thank you very much for creating these vids for us!

[@petersgarage6125]

Very easy and concise tutorial. When explaining something new to someone you cannot assume that people have prior knowledge of what you are explaining. This is coming from a school teacher.

[@pierothol2022]

I love the 50's kid. All my confidence when it comes to working with cars comes from watching his videos. Such a life saver.

[@wolflord256]

I just did this the other day...I know it makes access to 5 & 6 easier but I didn't take off the cabin filter tray or the top cover, just the coil cover. As for tightening I've always gone with the rule of thumb of hand tight + ~1/2 turn for new plugs and hand tight + 1/8 to 1/4 turn for used plugs. All that aside, thanks for your videos as they've given me a lot of information for my new to me E46 323i.

[@dboucher26]

E46 BMWs are very easy to work on. I’ve saved thousands on repairs over the years.

[@The-Cat]

I am about to begin working on mine this weekend, for the very first time (first time doing work on a car myself ever). So i'm hoping it would be easy. My baby has been sitting in the garage for 6 years since i got a company car to drive daily. I'm hoping to revive my baby for weekend drives :D

[@albertloffredo1059]

I can’t believe the work you do in that garage. You have mad skills.

[@davidbalcaen4728]

right on with the anti-seize. I have done this all my life with sparkplugs, wheel nuts too, just makes the NEXT service or wheel change a breeze. As you tighten the sparkplug, sometimes you can feel the washer "compress" and you know it is just about tight enough. One more little tug after the washer compresses and you're all done. Never, ever overtighten plugs, as you say.

[@vominator]

Per NGK website: NGK spark plugs feature trivalent plating. This silver or chrome-colored finish on the threads is designed to provide corrosion resistance against moisture and chemicals. The coating also acts as a release agent during spark plug removal. NGK spark plugs are installed at the factory dry, without lubrication or anti-seize. Anti-seize can act as a lubricant, altering torque values up to 20 percent, increasing the risk of spark plug thread breakage and/or metal shell stretch. Thread breakage can sometimes involve removing the cylinder head for repair. Metal shell stretch changes the heat rating of the spark plug and can result in serious engine damage caused by pre-ignition. Do not use anti-seize or lubricant on NGK spark plugs. It is completely unnecessary and can be detrimental.

[@mrizononi9243]

You're one of the best bmw doctor (mechanic) when it comes to explanation...eita da

[@ravsinghrajput2105]

You have educated me so much, I'm about to open an auto shop 😂 But seriously I'm working on my beemer step by step guided by your video. Thanks a million for saving me tonnes of money

[@rafaelfuentes9919]

awesome videos I have a 2002 330ci every question I have about changing a part you have a step by step video on how to tackle it thank you.

[@grandolddrummer]

rafael fuentes The50sKid is the man!

[@tk2070]

Thats why hes the 50's god!

[@ManuelPerez-oz3dn]

I always come to you first before I make any moves on my E46 330i, exceptional instructor

[@maxwell8427]

FINALLY a video that's easy to follow & understand without some lame music playing,,Not at all drawn out just straight to the point THANK YOU! You know have a new follower🥰

[@whosMandoo]

Literally the easiest way to change spark plugs! Well done

[@youtubeuser2191]

So these plugs are good for all E46s? You’re a life saver man thank you so much!

[@salwanburgess4994]

Excellent. You are a brilliant teacher. 10/10 thank you for not disturbing your work with music. Keep up the good work.

[@georgehugh3455]

One of the better (simple) maintenance videos, and I've been looking at lots lately. Appreciate the step-by-step visual and aural; clear well-lit non-shaky video; plus a couple insights. Subscribed.

[@LoL-xb5et]

You’ve already saved me easily $2,000 thank you so much

[@NotVeryNiceToYou]

thanks for this! I been planning on doing this for sometime and it helps just seeing someone do it on video.

[@50sKid]

Awesome, glad I made it then!

[@buckybarnes3803]

50sKid how do you know when it's time to change the plugs comma and or is it something that should be done regularly as preventive maintenance? thanks

[@elnericoo]

I think its probably been mentioned but NGK also states not to put anti seize as you can go over torque specs by 20%. Also they state that their spark plugs or at least these 4 prong platinums have anti corrosive material which helps prevents corrosion so there is no need for the anti sieze. But thanks for the diy!

[@DetroneDoesIt]

This was a very clear and super easy to follow video… I just bought an 2002 330 CI and it’s in need of a tune up badly… Thanks again for this!

[@ApaX1981]

Use a rubber hose to put the sparkplugs back in (and out). Just make sure it fits snugly around the ceramic. With the hose you can lower it into the head and you cannot cross thread it.

[@duladrop4252]

I am glad that you put the torque value, it is very important for us, newb to this stuff, Hope you put those on all videos that's need to be torque properly.

[@aburkhalter1883]

Im telling ppl all the time he needs his own show he is great at these clips

[@shAiDawn]

This video is to the point. Purchased a used 2004 330i and it seems to be misfiring so I'm going to do this job asap. I imagine it needs new spark plugs considering I'm at 120k miles so I'm going to replace them and do the coils as well. I hope that does the trick. Really appreciate knowing its a simple job. Thanks again!

[@mariusavci1451]

You are the only KZbinr I would love to buy some Merch from. Like „Hi, Im the 50sKid.“ Love your videos so much. Thank you!

[@ricke3095]

Thanks man couldn’t do it without this video and I never worked on a car in my life first time. Also when I was tightening the coil screws I tightened it to hard and broke the screw in half so that’s gonna be a headache for future me.... lol

[@aburkhalter1883]

Your my go to guy for my 04 330 ci thanks man hope to see more

[@joelesparza103]

This is a great how to video. Thanks! Saved me 800+ dollars, thats with a replacement of one coil.

[@nicklane103]

thank you for all your e46 content. you are such a valuable source of information for us diy mechanics. thanks again for helping me keep my 2003 330ci w/40k miles running great.

[@WRLDZ46]

how much u at now lol

[@nicklane103]

102k still going strong @@WRLDZ46

[@kendtchileninjah5905]

50sKid you are the man. Hope you are doing well and life is good

[@aldairnava5966]

just got a used e46, been looking around on youtube for good content. Definitely subscribed after this video. So clear and precise, Thanks bro

[@wasabi_hobbies7108]

I love this guy so much he made the perfect video for this 😭😭 i love you 50's kid keep killing it hahaha

[@vominator]

Per NGK website: NGK spark plugs feature trivalent plating. This silver or chrome-colored finish on the threads is designed to provide corrosion resistance against moisture and chemicals. The coating also acts as a release agent during spark plug removal. NGK spark plugs are installed at the factory dry, without lubrication or anti-seize. Anti-seize can act as a lubricant, altering torque values up to 20 percent, increasing the risk of spark plug thread breakage and/or metal shell stretch. Thread breakage can sometimes involve removing the cylinder head for repair. Metal shell stretch changes the heat rating of the spark plug and can result in serious engine damage caused by pre-ignition. Do not use anti-seize or lubricant on NGK spark plugs. It is completely unnecessary and can be detrimental.

[@JMUDoc]

There are some very... distressing pictures of plugs over-torqued because of anti-seize - I never, ever use it.

[@skate4204life7]

The only difference on a 2003 e46 325i is there is a finger loop you lift up to disconnect the plug and there are no bolts you just use the finger loop to pull the coil out. Other then that you did a great job explaining the process.

[@LeonAllanDavis]

One more reason to own a BMW. Owner-friendly maintenance. Lots of other makes can be a nightmare when it comes to simple tasks like changing plugs or oil filters or sensors. Unbolt the motor mounts. Jack up engine. Remove front wheels. Take out the radiator. Pull out the brake master cylinder. Mercedes Benz are especially notorious when it comes to this sort of thing. Unlike the folks at BMW, Mercedes engineers don't want you to even lift the hood. Take your Mercedes to the dealer; drop your pants; and bend over. This is why I've never owned one. Not the way I roll.

[@50sKid]

lol

[@floridaheat305]

Leon Allan Davis I agree man super easy to repair love bimmers

[@PazLeBon]

hilariouys! usually pull of ht lead, take out plug, all all this faffin about

[@ruebenelmonte8088]

Bend over buddy

[@masterluisYTV]

problem with bimmers..u have to replace them all the time. makes sense on why they made it so convenient

[@blsecco]

Thank you for all the great videos. I just picked up (my first) 03 325i 176k miles and have to address most, well all maintenance and leaks. Keep up the great work!

[@Wtfisahandle344]

Bilbo Jankins what did u pay?

[@killerspinach8256]

Best how to videos on KZbin. You do a great job on these. Thnx.

[@jaycris1980]

These instructions are as clear as it gets.

[@andreweasley4650]

Thanks for the video! Also if you are doing the job on a ZHP just pry the coils up and they will pop out! Much respect 50sKid!

[@50sKid]

Yes, because you have MS45 (software version) as your DME (engine computer)

[@charlie_ygp]

Hello. Comment from Japan. Your videos are really helpful. I referenced your many tips. Thank you.

[@50sKid]

Thanks!

[@leandroemanueljaramillo2573]

Excelente trabajo. Saludos desde neuquén. Argentina. Gracias por tanto aporte. Admirable realmente.

[@sergiosedano9983]

Have a 2000 323i and these videos help me do everything, and save money!! Thanks a lot bro . From the Bay Area ca :)

[@robertemerson7083]

Very clear. Thank you. I appreciate the HD (! wow such detail) and that the camera was tripod mounted. No shake. I was evaluating if this job is within my skills and will do it myself and save the labor fees and parts surcharges. Thank you. will subscribe.

[@algorithmscollide8489]

Best video ive seen on spark plugs good tip for the torque wrench..

[@tomknoerl]

Right on target. I agree you are right to the point without any fluff.

[@7privet_]

nice video! but the rubber socket is so you don't damage the ceramic on the plugs.

[@Jedi_Luke]

I love your simple clear vids. I wish you did ALL cars lol

[@KraktysAncientAccount]

The word I always used for new techs is not to make it "tight" but to make it "snug"

[@50sKid]

i like that

[@joeorlando94]

Just changed the plugs on my 2001 330Ci with 190k miles with the NGK plugs. Tip: wrap duct tape around the spark plug socket and the extension. I didn't do this on the #1 cylinder. Fine on plug removal, but when I installed the new plug, the socket came off and got stuck in the hole. (Imagine my first words). Removed with needle nose pliers thankfully. After changing all 6, I started the car, I got a "misfire on #5 with fuel cut-off" code. Not sure what happened, but I took the coil off, tested for spark, fine, then installed it again. Worked fine. I did have oil on the plug threads of cylinders 1, 2, 3, and a little on 6. Think it's those circular gaskets that are part of the valve cover gasket set that are leaking? I do have to add oil every month or so. I changed the valve cover gasket twice due to leaks dripping on the exhaust, causing a terrible smell, and I'm not doing that job again unless absolutely necessary.

[@charleswhite_]

Hey man , you have an amazing channel. I appreciate your expertises, you’ve help me learn a lot about my e46 ! Thanks so much.

[@Spartan195X]

Love your videos. so much quality and well explanied methods

[@123gleidson]

greetings from Brazil, learn a lot from your videos.

[@50sKid]

Thanks!

[@rbell7666]

Just helped a friend sell a 325i Sulev car to a young guy. Told him to search KZbin for the 50's Kid and he replied: "I LOVE the 50's kid!"

[@benm6899]

love your videos, precise and to the point :)

[@XclusiveAaron]

Totally agree, the absolute LAST Thing you wanna do is strip these. I did it myself to my motorbike when I was 17, had no idea what I was doing and I ruined the engine!

[@UCanDoIt2Mike]

Nicely done! Going to have my teen driver watch this and perform this update.

[@50sKid]

nice

[@ericklopez1735]

Hi 50sKid, thanks for the video it's really helpful! I have a major question... Why BMW says to not put anti-seize on spark plugs threads ? They say as a matter of fact an anti-seize product has a torque multiplying effect. But is is not recommended by BMW to use Anti-Seize when installaling plugs. Porsche also do not recommend using Anti Seize, along Pelicanpart and many other online resources. Anti seize compounds are typically composed of metallic, electrically conductive ingredients. If anti seize compounds come in contact with the core nose of the plugs, it can lead to a misfire condition. See below for some additional explanations. Autolite: We do not recommend the use of any anti seize products for installing spark plugs. Anti seize compounds are typically composed of metallic, electrically conductive ingredients. If anti seize compounds come in contact with the core nose of the plugs, it can lead to a misfire condition. Anti seize compounds can also have a torque multiplying effect when installing plugs. This can lead to thread distortion and thread galling resulting in cylinder head damage. Autolite spark plugs are nickel plated to resist the effects of corrosion and seizing. However, plug seizure is aggravated further when steel plugs are installed into aluminum cylinder heads for a long period of time. AC/Delco: Do not use any type of anti-seize compound on spark plug threads. Doing this will decrease the amount of friction between the threads. The result of the lowered friction is that when the spark plug is torqued to the proper specification, the spark plug is turned too far into the cylinder head. This increases the likelihood of pulling or stripping the threads in the cylinder head. Over-tightening of a spark plug can cause stretching of the spark plug shell and could allow blowby to pass through the gasket seal between the shell and insulator. Over-tightening also results in extremely difficult removal. This is really confusing... I really don't know if I should or not put Anti-seize! thanks for the help buddy!

[@50sKid]

You shouldn't really need it on a BMW, the plugs are pretty well protected from corrosion.

[@ericklopez1735]

thanks a lot!

[@Xixu.co.6]

nino lo I always put a little bit of antiseize on them, especially since it's an aluminum head. Just make sure you keep it on the threads. I think they say not to use it because people are dumb and slob it all over the plug and get it on the electrode and end up with a misfire

[@voicetube]

Just curious, could you just use a drop of engine oil instead?

[@codyhurd2485]

@@voicetube no.

[@qapenjordan8793]

thanks , easy to understand and well explained . I appreciate the stable video.

[@billrinehart110]

Thank you thank you thank you for such concise and clear instructions. beautifully done

[@thijsiezandvliet]

1st vid i see from ur channel and instantly subbed :)

[@50sKid]

right on, welcome!

[@NWA_1919]

I got as far as cylinder 2 and surprise surprise the threads from the cylider head came out with the old spark plug :) idk if the last owner changed the plugs and somehow managed to missthread this one. But yeah, my 328 now has only 5 cylinders :D

[@torresjasonlesliemaranacel7260]

Very helpful video good job man

[@m3gtr156]

Great vids 50's Kid!

[@jdmcarboy64]

Always make sure you get this exact style plug, if you fuck around and get a single prong electrode you're asking for misfire in said cylinder.

[@judahpower]

It's okay to not use the rubber socket boot when taking the plug out but the boot helps guide the plug and protects from cracking the porcelain I'm putting it back in

[@swagDaley]

im a new bmw owner and this was very helpful thanks a lot man

[@CMDRRustyDog]

Simple and well explained. Thank you !

[@bimer112]

thanks, great video! -2004 325i 5spd 45k miles

[@marvalouslegend30]

Thanks for all the help!

[@Xalashaska]

You’re a life saver 🙏🏽

[@pauldunn8659]

Great video. Very helpful. Thank you!

[@fatmefateemy7000]

I had the spark plug re[laced but the car is misfiring. He mentioned that there's oil inside. What can I do for that? By the way, thanks for making it so simple. I watched your video to remove all the parts.

[@50sKid]

Change your valve cover gasket.

[@caddiblack78]

Man you the best !!!! Thanks a lot. 👍👍👍

[@SYZ]

Thanks for a very detailed video

[@javierhernandez2748]

You helped alot man thank you very much SUBSCRIBED !

[@kniksman]

Great video thanks. However I'm confused as to why so many people say that NGK are the proper spark plug to use? When I had my first (I was first owner of the vehicle) BMW e46 330ci m sport convertible facelift year 2004 model here in the UK (think north Americans call it the ZHP), I changed my plugs myself at home and well the originals from factory were Bosch plugs. Did BMW use both Bosch and NGK from factory?

[@jookbj]

I'd be nice to have the tools listed and their size

[@steffenbatista477]

jookbj Cheap Stanley 69 piece ratchet set on amazon for about 50$ that include plenty of sizes both mm and standard. Also includes spark plug socket! www.amazon.com/dp/B000KE6E1U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_x1CJzbWTTAYR4

[@jookbj]

Steffen Batista thanks

[@Karl_Kampfwagen]

😑 Reporting back; two years ago I watched this, and replaced my factory original single point Bosch R6 plugs (227k miles) with these NGK Laser Platinum 4-prong plugs, and I only got two years, and 27k miles out of them, on an M54B25.

[@jtgayle5825]

Awesome dude🔥🔥💪🏾

[@elijah6013]

So I replaced my spark plugs on my 2001 330ci 76k miles because I was getting misfires but when I removed them there was a bit of oil on them. So Im going to change the valve cover gasket but I just wanna know if you have to clean the spark plug tube as well?

[@Burzibg]

10x man, good video and explayning :)

[@ManzoNineThree]

I just did the job and car is running phenomenal, since the video is old i was wondering if ngk is still the way to go? I was told to go genuine bosch but is double the price for the spark plugs

[@arsenalfeet]

Whats the best, cost conscious basic mechanic toolset i can use for basic maintenance for my E46. Unfortunately some of the tools in the provided toolset are missing. Im in uk, so a link on euro car parts or halfords would be very helpful 🤜

[@Spider_subi]

What is this plastic piece bolted down with 10mm and when or why would they need to be replaced? If not done with plugs themselves. Also I'm assuming I should save the valve cover and vc gasket, vanos hose, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket and spark plugs when I do my next oil change?!?!?! BMW wanted 6 gs.

[@REVOLVERs187]

Micro filter. It's so weird hearing that. I'm so used to saying cabin filter lol

[@PutsOnLoafers]

I just call it the spunghy thingy

[@dhalsim-1]

Hi, I have an e46 318 with N46 engine. I bought some Bosch plugs (single ground) a few months ago and was wondering if it's recommended to gap them first? I know these plugs come pre-gapped at (1mm) but this seems a bit too wide from some of the gap specifications I've read - which is usually around 0.032 inch or 0.82mm. Is it wise to go ahead and adjust them or am I better off leaving them be? Thanks for any help 🙂

[@gregorytolson4621]

Why did you not add dielectric grease around the ceramic base?

[@randht]

Hi Kid, Will I get a check engine light after I replace the plugs and ignition coils?

[@ryan4372]

Changing mine Friday. Is it stupid to start the engine after installing every spark plug (so if there’s an issue with one of the six, you know which one if the car doesn’t start, lol). Or due to having 5 dirty spark plugs, could ruin the new one?

[@heavenelias2630]

Is is possible to list the exact tools you use size and everything. I know it’s in the video but I don’t want to pause it everytime

[@johnsonsonjohnson3801]

What do you think about bosche spark plugs. I heard they were the best for BMWs.

[@maeu59]

When should the plugs be changed? I have 2005 with only 27,000 miles but never changed the plugs. Am I due?

[@50sKid]

About 100,000 miles. You're fine.

[@maeu59]

Even though there 12 years old

[@mattm7026]

maeu59 age won't do anything to them. They'll be worn down by use

[@richlee509]

Great video thanks

[@skighee4956]

Hi! Are the plugs easier to change when replacing the valve cover gasket??

[@semente29]

What about Denso IK20TT? what do you say?

[@ryanmurray1252]

Hey buddy so sadly my spark plug in the firs bank seems to be in too deep? When I drop the socket it isn’t getting to the bolt part and the socket just spins forever is there a trick or hack to get it out? Thanks

[@mattbliven5345]

Great video