Video tutorial on how to replace the spark plugs on a BMW M62. This particular vehicle I am working with here today is a 1997 BMW 540i e39 body style, but the same procedure can be use on the E38, E31, and E53 models. There will be some differences, but the same procedure can also be used on the earlier M60 V8 too which is found in the E31, E32, and E34 models. Bosch has been kind enough to provide me the parts required for the replacement. Faulty spark plugs can cause a loss of engine performance, poor fuel economy, idling issues, misfires, trigger a check engine light, and incomplete combustion burn.

Tools/Supplies Needed:
-3/8” drive ratchet
-3/8” drive 6” extension
-3/8” drive 10mm shallow socket
-3/8” drive 10mm deep socket
-small standard screwdriver
-3/8” drive 5/8” or 16mm deep socket
-new spark plugs
-inch pound torque wrench


Procedure:
-remove the engine cover, specially for the M62 you will have 4 buttons that need to be pushed in so the cover is disconnected from the top of the engine
-lift the cover off
-using a standard screwdriver, remove the 4 square caps, 2 on each side for the plastic valve cover caps
-there will be a small cutout on the bottom to pop the cap up
-underneath those caps are 10mm bolts that holds on these plastic caps
-lift off the plastic covers
-two 10mm nuts hold on each of these coil packs
-using a 10mm socket and 3/8” ratchet, remove the all the nuts
-you may need a mix between a shallow and deep socket to overcome some of the tighter clearances around the fuel lines and abs module
-once that is done, sometimes you can flip the clips up with your finger, other times you may need the assistance of a standard screwdriver
-pull the metal retaining clips for the electrical connectors upward
-then pull the electrical connector back to disconnect from each of the coil packs
-remove the coil packs
-depending on the condition of your valve cover gaskets, you may or may not find some oil pooling up inside the spark plug cavity
-if there is excessive oil, then the gasket will need to be replace as this can cause engine running issues
-it’s important to clean this oil up first, allowing it to soak up with paper towel
-to remove the spark plugs, use a 5/8” or 16mm deep socket, preferably with a rubber boot inside to help hold the spark plug for removal and installation
-use a 6” extension and 3/8” drive ratchet
-if you find the spark plugs are removing harder, tighten them up slightly, then loosen again and repeat if need be
-carbon can build up on the threads and you can risk damaging those threads if you are forcing the spark plug excessively
-remove the four plugs on the one side and then install the new spark plugs
-install all the plugs on the one bank, then torque to spec
-torque specifications are 18ft lbs or 25 nm
-due to the small torque value, you will most likely need an inch pound torque wrench which works out to 216 inch pounds
-install the coil packs and tighten down the bolts
-use the same procedure on the passenger side
-once done, ensure everything is tight and then reinstall the engine covers