330i N53 Spark Plug Change

BigMoose · 02-03-2022, 11:06 AM

Hi all,

I have a 2009 330i (N53). I am planning on changing the plugs over the weekend.

Do you need to remove the strut brace to do this? I think not but have seen it mentioned in a few posts. I would prefer to know in advance as I will need to buy a socket for the special bolts.

Many Thanks !

BigMoose

0l0dom0l0 · 02-03-2022, 11:48 AM

No you don't need to.

Phil325i · 02-03-2022, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 0l0dom0l0

No you don't need to.

Agreed. But I suggest you get a swivel socket like the one shown in this NGK video. Your engine has a similar 'kink' in the head as the N43:

BigMoose · 02-03-2022, 01:01 PM

Many Thanks,

Just bought the swivel socket.

BigMoose

0l0dom0l0 · 02-03-2022, 05:00 PM

You can get away with the extended laser socket from halfrauds because the body of it is thin enough that it doesn't foul on the kink.

I read up on the kink socket after, but had already been successful with my replacement by then.

Just in case anyone reads in future.

OliSharp · 03-05-2022, 06:28 PM

+1 the swivel socket, and a long extension.
My socket always comes off the extension when I try and pull it out, so I keep some long nose pliers to hand to retrieve it.

Getting the engine cowling back on when you’ve done the spark plugs is a massive PITA, be patient and allow plenty of time! My technique is to get it on by the brake fluid reservoir first, then the other corner, then push down in the middle with one hand, reach underneath with the other hand to guide the clip into place, then push it towards the windscreen.

Phil325i · 03-06-2022, 04:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OliSharp

My socket always comes off the extension when I try and pull it out, so I keep some long nose pliers to hand to retrieve it.

Just wrap a small piece of electrical tape around the joint between the socket and the extension and then it won't come off...

02-03-2022, 11:06 AM	#1
BigMoose New Member 1 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW 330i Join Date: Apr 2019 Location: Kent, UK iTrader: (0)	330i N53 Spark Plug Change Hi all, I have a 2009 330i (N53). I am planning on changing the plugs over the weekend. Do you need to remove the strut brace to do this? I think not but have seen it mentioned in a few posts. I would prefer to know in advance as I will need to buy a socket for the special bolts. Many Thanks ! BigMoose
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02-03-2022, 11:48 AM	#2
0l0dom0l0 First Lieutenant 71 Rep 318 Posts Drives: BMW E92 330i Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Uk iTrader: (0)	No you don't need to.
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02-03-2022, 01:01 PM	#4
BigMoose New Member 1 Rep 5 Posts Drives: BMW 330i Join Date: Apr 2019 Location: Kent, UK iTrader: (0)	Many Thanks, Just bought the swivel socket. BigMoose
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02-03-2022, 05:00 PM	#5
0l0dom0l0 First Lieutenant 71 Rep 318 Posts Drives: BMW E92 330i Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: Uk iTrader: (0)	You can get away with the extended laser socket from halfrauds because the body of it is thin enough that it doesn't foul on the kink. I read up on the kink socket after, but had already been successful with my replacement by then. Just in case anyone reads in future.
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03-05-2022, 06:28 PM	#6
OliSharp Private 9 Rep 61 Posts Drives: E93 330i Highline MSport Join Date: Jan 2019 Location: SW London iTrader: (0)	+1 the swivel socket, and a long extension. My socket always comes off the extension when I try and pull it out, so I keep some long nose pliers to hand to retrieve it. Getting the engine cowling back on when you’ve done the spark plugs is a massive PITA, be patient and allow plenty of time! My technique is to get it on by the brake fluid reservoir first, then the other corner, then push down in the middle with one hand, reach underneath with the other hand to guide the clip into place, then push it towards the windscreen.
	Appreciate 0 Quote