[Mark e90]

I'm looking at buying a 325i it ticks all the boxes except one the car has full service history - oil, filters etc but it appears the spark plug have never been changed the car is 2006 with 85,000 miles could this cause any major problems ? I intend to get the car a full major service if I but just want to hear your views on this. Can't understand why BMW would never have changed the plugs ?

[El Cheapo Loco]

Spark plugs are good for 100k on the N52. I changed mine at 85k and the old ones are still good. It's a $30 DIY job that takes less than an hour.

[Mark e90]

Originally Posted by elcheapoloco

Spark plugs are good for 100k on the N52. I changed mine at 85k and the old ones are still good. It's a $30 DIY job that takes less than an hour.

That's good to hear where can I find all the info on service schedule etc? Well it's definitely under 100k only at 85k at the moment but the car is 2006 could that make a difference or does it not matter how many years old. Is 100k the only stipulation ?

[Mark e90]

Also that is 100k miles right ?

[Mark e90]

I'm also a little concerned that the plugs might break or strip coming out after reading a few threads about that. But I spoke to my mechanic who says its nothing to worry about as the plugs are original and will not have been cross threaded on the way in, they might be tight but should still come out fine.

[gaza01]

It could be an issue but unlikely. In any event the old plugs have to come out at some point.

[Phil325i]

Originally Posted by elcheapoloco

Spark plugs are good for 100k on the N52.

True...but this is a European 325i, so most likely the N53 engine which I believe requires plugs changing rather more frequently than 100K!

[Mark e90]

Originally Posted by Phil325i

True...but this is a European 325i, so most likely the N53 engine which I believe requires plugs changing rather more frequently than 100K!

The n53 was introduced in 2007 this car I'm talking about is early 2006 so I'm pretty sure it's the n52. Is there any difference in bhp or cc between these two engines just to double check what engine is in the car.

[Mark e90]

Here is a picture of the exact engine

[Phil325i]

Originally Posted by Markcaughey

Here is a picture of the exact engine

Looks like an N52 to me. These should tell you all you need:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N52

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_N53

[Mark e90]

Checked it out using the vin it is n52

[UncleWede]

That's an extremely clean N52 from early 2006. Wish mine looked that nice.

[El Cheapo Loco]

Originally Posted by Markcaughey

Also that is 100k miles right ?

That's correct. If you are so worried, then have a shop do it. One of my plugs was really snug and I had to use a breaker bar to take it out. You would have to be an arm wrestling champ to break a spark plug.

[Zazhar101]

I'd say spray a little DW40 and then remove the plugs... I'm at 96K 06 325i bought in 2011.... *sighs* so much maintenance...

[Mark e90]

Originally Posted by Zazhar101

I'd say spray a little DW40 and then remove the plugs... I'm at 96K 06 325i bought in 2011.... *sighs* so much maintenance...

What maintenance have you had done to your car ?

Update on the plugs. Got them changed out with no issues. I find that the car runs better and starts quicker, happy days.

[Efthreeoh]

I would suggest an engine air filter at 100,000 miles, and cleaning and swapping the VANOS solenoids (there is a DIY for it in the DIY section). Maybe a fuel cleaner additive just for good measure (note I've never used it in over 237K on my car). And check the engine accessory drive belt for cracks on the rib-side of it. The drive belt is a 5-minute change DIY with the correct tool for releasing the tensioner. And 100,000 miles is time for coolant, diff and transmission oil changes.