The ignition plugs are small but vital components that have no alternative to ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in each cylinder. You need to make sure that your engine has an ideal set of spark plugs. Because it’s important to keep your engine properly functioning and hold off the problems such as misfiring, poor mileage, engine knocking, and so on.
BMW is one of the most sophisticated vehicle manufacturers in the world. Many of us have a fascination with BMW cars because of their elegant design and impressive looks. Even though appearance is crucial for fascination, the performance of a car matters the most. The performance of the car mostly depends on the spark plugs.
However, you require the most specific spark plugs for your BMW. That’s why I have come with some of the best BMW spark plugs.
| # | Preview | Product |
|---|---|---|
1 |
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Double Platinum Spark Plug – Up to 3X Longer Life for Select BMW 128i 323i 325i 325xi 328i 328xi 330i 330xi 525i 525xi 528i 528xi 530i 530xi X3 X5 Z4 xDrive and Saab 9-3 (Pack of 1) |
2 |
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BMW Spark Plugs, Plug Set Laser Platinum NGK OEM 3199 (6pcs) |
3 |
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BMW Spark Plugs Platinum Plug Set Bosch OEM 158253 / FR7NP P332 (6pcs) |
4 |
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NGK 6619 Iridium Spark Plugs LFR6AIX-11 – 6 PCSNEW |
5 |
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High Power Ignition Coil & Spark Plug Pack of 6. Compatible with select BMW 3-Series 5-Series X3 X5. Double Iridium. Replaces 0221504470 |
6 |
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NGK SILZKBR8D8S Laser Iridium Spark Plug (97506 Laser Iridium), 4 Pack |
7 |
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High Performance Platinum Spark Plugs 12120037607 BKR6EQUP 3199 for BMW E39 E46 M54 328i 528i X3 X5 Pack of 6 |
8 |
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Pre Grapped Spark Plugs 12120037244 ZGR6STE2 with BMW E60 E90 E92 E93 135i 335i 535i Pack of 6 |
9 |
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BMW 12-12-0-039-664 Spark Plug, High Power |
10 |
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BMW Spark Plugs Plug Set Platinum Iridium High Power Bosch OEM 12122158253 / FR7NPP332 (6pcs) 128i 325i 325xi 328i 328i xDrive 328xi 330i 330xi 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 528i 528i xDrive 528xi X3 X5 |
1. Bosch Double Platinum Spark Plug for BMW (Pack of 1)
It’s no surprise that a double platinum spark plug by Bosch topped our list. Bosch has maintained a name among car enthusiasts for having the best quality products money can buy. Their 360° laser-welded platinum inlay ground electrode lasts 3 times longer than standard copper spark plugs.
The plugs are also pre-gapped so you don’t have to worry about gap adjustment when purchasing. Just plug it in and you’re ready to go. These plugs are manufactured to act as direct replacements for your OE parts.
A lot of factors were considered when designing these spark plugs. The rolled threads are covered with nickel plated shells so they don’t require anti-seizing adjustments. The copper core facilitates better heat transfer while the ribbed insulator design prevents flashover. The spark plug requires less voltage delivery but outputs high energy for ignition.
The sparker is built with corrosion resistant material and its continuous laser-welded fusion makes it durable and long lasting. Compared to single platinum speakers, this one will be in service much longer and deliver better results.
Bosch’s double platinum spark plugs are compatible with a large number of BMW models, including: BMW: (2007 – 2010) X3, (2007 – 2010) X5, (2006 – 2010) Z4, (2008 – 2013) 128i, (2006 – 2010) 323i, 2006 325i, 2006 325xi, (2007 – 2012) 328i, (2009 – 2012) 328i xDrive, (2007 – 2008) 328xi, 2006 330i, 2006 330xi, (2006 – 2007) 525i, (2006 – 2007) 525xi, (2008 – 2010) 528i, (2009 – 2010) 528i xDrive, 2008 528xi, (2006 – 2007) 530i, (2006 – 2007) 530xi, SAAB: (2006 – 2009) 9-4.
Pros:
- The plugs are pre-gapped so installation is easier
- Laser-welded platinum makes the product corrosion resistant and durable
- Lasts three times longer than standard copper spark plugs
Cons:
- Rarely cause misfire
2. NGK OEM 3199 Laser Platinum Spark Plugs Set for BMW (6pcs)
NGK OEM replacement spark plugs are some of the best and most trusted sparkers on the market. These platinum spark plugs with a platinum tip have a core made of 98% pure copper. The use of copper and platinum make the spark plug highly conductive to heat while also being resistant to melting.
The plugs are designed for better ignitability and focused sparks with their 0.6 mm fine-wire center electrode. Overall, the spark plugs promise durability and longevity along with smooth usage. For optimal performance, put some copper graphite grease on the threads before use.
NGK spark plugs reduce chances of accidents by providing stronger insulation aided by their high-grade alumina silicate ceramic. The threads are cold-rolled to prevent cross-threading and damage to cylinder heads. Along with all these, their laser platinum design meets quality and durability standards. NGK spark plugs make a lot of promises to their users and they meet almost all of them in most cases.
When purchasing the product, you’ll need to verify your VIN number and other details like model name, make and manufacturing year. The NGK spark plugs are designed to replace these OEM parts:
3199 , 12120037607 , 12129071003 , 12120141871 , 12 12 0 037 607 , 12 12 9 071 003 , 12 12 0 141 871.
They will fit these BMW models:
1998 E36; From 9/98 318i , 318ti , 328i , 328is / 1999 E36 318ti / 2000 E46 323Ci , 328Ci / 1998 1999 E36 323i 323is / 1999 2000 E46 323i , 328i / 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 E46 325Ci , 330Ci / 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 E46 325i , 325xi , 330i , 525i / 1999 E36 328is / 1997 E39; From 9/97 528i / 1998 1999 2000 E39 528i / 2001 2002 2003 E39 530i / 2004 2005 E60 530i / 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 E39 540i / 2004 2005 E60 545i / 2004 2005 E63 Coupe; E64 Convertible 645Ci / 1998 E38; From 9/98 740i 740iL / 1999 2000 2001 E38 740i 740iL / 2002 2003 2004 2005 E66 745Li / 2002 2003 2004 2005 E65 745i / 1998 M73 Eng.; E38; From 9/98 750iL / 1999 2000 2001 E38 750iL / 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 E66 760Li / 2004 2005 2006 E65 760i / 2000 2001 2002 2003 E39 M5 / 2004 2005 E83 X3 / 2006 3.0L; E83 X3 / 2000 8 Cyl.; E53 X5 / 2001 2006 4.4L; E53 X5 / 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 6 Cyl.; E53 X5 / 2002 2003 2004 2005 8 Cyl.; E53 X5 / 1998 2.8L; E36; From 9/98 Z3 / 1999 Exc. 3.2L; E36 Z3 / 2000 2001 E36 Z3 / 2002 Exc. 3.2L; E36 Z3 / 2003 2004 2005 E85; Convertible Z4 / 2000 2001 2002 2003 E52 Z8
Pros:
- Lower emissions which lead to higher fuel efficiency
- Pre-gapped and easy to install
- High resistance to melting as spark plug material is copper and platinum
Cons:
- All 6 provided plugs may not be functional
3. Bosch OEM 158253 / FR7NP P332 Platinum Spark Plugs Set for BMW
One again Bosch is on our list of best spark plugs for BMW. Bosch continues delivering high quality, durable products which will serve you for a long time. These plugs act as direct replacement for your OE parts and fit a large number of BMW models.
The spark plug electrode is pre-gapped in the factory and its center electrode is made of platinum and iridium. Wires are sold separately according to vehicle model and manufacturing year so they are easily adaptable.
These spark plugs can be used for a wide variety of vehicles, including bus, van, motorcycle, ATV, scooters, UTV, watercraft, snowmobile and cars. These double platinum spark plugs are designed to be user friendly and easy to install.
The spark plugs replace OEM parts with these numbers: 12120032137, 12120035915, 12122158253
Pros:
- Pre-gapped electrodes require no additional adjustments
- Provides better gas mileage
- High resistance to melting
Cons:
- May not be the right fit for many BMW models
4. NGK 6619 Iridium Spark Plugs LFR6AIX-11 – 6 PCSNEW
NGK Iridium spark plugs are designed to provide OE quality service once installed. They are not direct replacements for your OE parts but they are said to perform just as well, if not better.
The NGK 6619 Iridium spark plugs can operate over a wider heat range, compared to most other spark plugs. The materials used have high heat resistance capacity as well as high heat conductivity. They don’t require much high voltage for ignition. Their patented triple gasket sealing process even eliminates chances of combustion gas leakage.
The plugs are designed to be long lasting and will last up to 60,000 miles easily. It is suggested that you change the plugs once you’ve hit 100,000 miles using them.
These sparkers are manufactured to fit a large number of BMW vehicles. You’ll find the full list of vehicles these plugs are compatible with in the manual that is provided along with plug purchase.
Pros:
- Increases mileage coverage
- Resists carbon buildup and pre-ignition
- Compatible with a large number of models
- Electrodes are pre-gapped
Cons:
- Does not replace OEM parts, requires adjustments and extra installing tools
5. High Power Ignition Coil & Spark Plug for BMW (Pack of 6)
QVDX brings you high power spark plugs for your BMW which are designed for safe and seamless installation. These double iridium spark plugs are designed to provide safe and efficient electricity transfer and high speed ignition.
This spark plug is designed to directly replace OEM part number: 0221504470
These spark plugs are user friendly as they have ribbed insulation that prevent flash overs and controls temperature. Their nickel plated shell with rolled threads provides complete anti-seize and protects against corrosion.
The plugs are all pre-gapped in the factory and their 0.6mm fine wire pin is designed to provide better ignitability and durability.
You’re also getting a 1 year warranty with these plugs so you can install them without hesitation and see how they work out for you.
These plugs are compatible with only a few BMW models. The compatible models are:
2009 – 2010 BMW 335i xDrive, 2011 – 2013 BMW 335is, 2007 – 2008 BMW 335Xi, 2006 – 2007 BMW 525i and 525Xi, 2008 – 2011 BMW 528i, 2009 – 2010 BMW 528i xDrive and 535i xDrive, 2008 BMW 528Xi, 2006 – 2007 BMW 530i and 530Xi, 2008 -2010 BMW 535i, 2008 BMW 535Xi.
Pros:
- Prevents misfires and facilitates quick, easy engine starts
- Double iridium plugs provide high insulation, melting resistance and thermal conductivity
Cons:
- Does not fit a large number of models
6. NGK SILZKBR8D8S Laser Iridium Spark Plug (97506 Laser Iridium), 4 Pack
NGK is back on our BMW spark plug recommendation list and the NGK SILZKBR8D8S Spark Plug promises long, durable service.
Unlike the rest of the products on our list, NGK SILZKBR8D8S is sold as a single piece per box. It is a high performance spark plug with a core made of Iridium. The plugs are highly conductive and have high resistance to melting. If you need a long term, heavy-duty replacement for your spark plugs, this one’s got you covered.
NGK SILZKBR8D8S Spark Plug replaces these OEM parts and fits these models: 73906045129, 739 06045 129, BMW 0 037 581, BMW12 12 0 037 581, MINI 12 12 0 037 581, MINI 0 037 581BMW 5 (F10, F18) 520 iN20 B20 A, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 520 iN20 B20 A, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 523 iN20 B20 A, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 528 iN20 B20 A, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 528 i xDriveN20 B20 A, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 550 iN63 B44 B, BMW 5 (F10, F18) 550i xDrive N63B44 B.
Pros:
- No core charge is required
- Highly conductive to heat
- Long lasting
Cons:
- Sold as only one piece instead of multiple but high price
7. SHUJI High-Performance Platinum Spark Plugs 12120037607 BKR6EQUP 3199 for BMW
SHUJI spark plugs will replace select OEM parts and function as good as OEM. They are a reliable replacement for damaged, out of order plugs.
The plugs have a platinum core covered with ceramic with the center electrode fitted precisely for durable performance.
You’re getting 6 pieces of high-performance, quick installation plugs with each purchase. These plugs are dual point so they get better spark, which is great for BMW cars. SHUJI offers a 1 year long warranty so you can purchase the plus, test them out yourself, and then decide if they’re worth your money.
The BMW models these plugs fit are:
2004-2006 BMW 325Ci Base, 2001-2005 BMW 325i Base, 2001-2005 BMW 330i Base, 1996-2000 BMW 328i Base, 1996-1999 BMW 328is Base, 2000 BMW 328Ci Base, 2001-2005 BMW 330xi Base, 2001-2005 BMW 325xi Base, 2001-2006 BMW 330Ci Base.
Pros:
- Work as direct OEM replacement, without any additional adjustments needed
- Platinum core allows the plug to have good electric and thermal conductivity while being heat resistant
Cons:
- Fits only a limited number of BMW models
Which BMW Spark Plug Should I Buy? – Buying Guide
While buying spark plugs, you need to think like someone who’s completely experienced in changing their car parts by themselves – which you probably are, since you’re going through an article on the best spark plugs for BMW. So be sure to check these areas before purchase:
The Material of the Spark Plug
Spark plugs are mainly made of these materials: copper, platinum, double platinum, iridium and double iridium. Copper spark plugs used to be the most common type of spark plugs but now they have been replaced by iridium and platinum plugs as they perform better. Currently, most modern engines cannot function with copper spark plugs. If you’re on a tight budget but require better durability and conductivity than copper plus, platinum plugs are the best option for you. They also last twice as long as regular copper spark plugs.
Double platinum spark plugs use platinum in both electrode and cap. They are similar to double iridium plugs but much more affordable. Iridium and double iridium plugs are the most efficient, high performing and long lasting spark plugs but they’re also a bit pricey. Bosch double platinum spark plugs and NGK iridium spark plugs both promise you reliability, efficiency and better gas mileage.
Size of the Spark Plug
Spark plugs are usually specified by the size of their thread or nut. Common plug sizes in the US are:
Thread: 10 millimeters with nut: 16 millimeters, thread: 12 millimeters with nut: 14 millimeters or 16 millimeters or 17.5 millimeters, thread: 14 millimeters with nut: 16 millimeters or 20.63 millimeters, and thread: 18 millimeters with nut: 20.63 millimeters.
Purchase a spark plug set that fits a large number of BMW models so that the thread and nut fits with the BMW engine. NGK laser platinum fits a large number of BMW models.
Heat Range the Plug Can Tolerate
Spark plugs are usually classified as “hot” if they are better heat insulators and they are sometimes specified using ascending numbers by some developers.
Spark plugs that lower their temperature by conducting heat away from their tips are called “cold” spark plugs and they are specified with descending numbers. Spark plugs that function in a wide heat range are usually better for purchase as they last longer and don’t melt as easily.
Gap Style of the Spark Plug
All the spark plugs on our list are pre-gapped from the factory. You can use a gap gauge and wrench to adjust this gap to fit your vehicle if needed. Bosch double platinum spark plugs, SHUJI spark plugs and QVDX high power spark plugs are all designed to fit most models without gap adjustment.
FAQs
How Often Should You Change Spark Plugs On a BMW?
The life expectancy of a spark plug depends on so many factors such as type, brand, model, and so on. Mostly, it depends on the type of engine. Here is a data-driven chart given below.
All the data mentioned above are approximate. The above data should be considered If the spark plug doesn’t get damaged before the recommended period. As part of regular maintenance, you should check the spark plugs and other vital engine components. If you find any faulty item, then replace it as soon as possible.
What Brand Of Spark plugs Are Best For BMW cars?
There are many spark plug brands available on the market right now for BMW cars. Taking into account all the specs, features, positives, and negatives, Bosch and NGK are the best spark plug brands for BMW. However, some aftermarket spark plugs mentioned above are also great in a certain way, it depends on the model of your BMW.
How Many Spark Plugs Are Required For Your BMW?
It depends on the type of engine and the number of cylinders. Usually, an engine requires one spark plug for each cylinder, but some engines may require two spark plugs for each cylinder.
How Much Do Spark Plugs For BMW Cars Cost?
The price depends on the brand, quality, quantity, type, and so on. However, a spark plug may cost around $7 to $30.
Are BMW Spark Plugs Pre-gapped?
Most modern spark plugs come pre-gapped. So, not all of them but most of them are pre-gapped.
Conclusion
It is better to change your BMW spark plugs once they’ve had a run of 100k miles. Although some plugs may claim to run even past that mileage, you shouldn’t push the durability of spark plugs. It is suggested to change the ignition coils of your car when you’re replacing the spark plugs to ensure smooth running of your car. Daily maintenance of cars is advised.
Greetings from James Milan. I am an Automotive enthusiast and car repairing expert for over 12 years. Blogging is one of my hobbies. According to my interest, I’ve started this blog to share my thoughts about the Automotive sectors and hope you’ll love it.