How many kilometers should the spark plugs of a BMW X5 be replaced?
3 Answers
It is recommended to replace the spark plugs of a BMW X5 every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If the spark plugs are not replaced for a long time, it may cause various issues such as leakage in the vehicle's ignition system, increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and most importantly, difficulty in ignition, affecting the normal use of the vehicle. Spark plug replacement cycle: Under normal maintenance conditions, spark plugs should be replaced after driving 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. However, this may vary depending on the brand and engine, so it is recommended to follow the user manual. The following standards can be referred to for maintenance replacement: platinum spark plugs should be replaced at 40,000 kilometers, ordinary nickel alloy spark plugs at 20,000 kilometers, and iridium spark plugs at 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Steps for replacing spark plugs: Open the engine hood, lift the plastic cover of the engine, remove the high-voltage distributor wires, and mark the position of each cylinder to avoid confusion. Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plugs one by one. When removing them, check for any external debris such as leaves or dust, and make sure to clean them thoroughly. Place the new spark plug into the spark plug hole, hand-tighten it a few turns, and then use the socket to tighten it further. Install the removed high-voltage distributor wires in the order of ignition and secure the cover.
I've been driving a BMW X5 for almost five years, and the spark plugs are usually replaced every 60,000 kilometers or so. Last time, I delayed the replacement until 70,000 kilometers, and the car started noticeably rough, shook during acceleration, and fuel consumption increased significantly. I quickly went to the 4S dealership to replace them with new ones, and all the problems were resolved. The BMW official manual also recommends this interval, but frequent traffic congestion can cause faster wear. In fact, aging spark plugs affect the ignition system, and not replacing them in time may trigger the engine warning light or lead to more serious issues. I recommend everyone to follow the maintenance schedule, preferably checking the spark plugs every 50,000 kilometers, and also cleaning the throttle body and fuel injectors to keep the car more durable. Spending a little more time on maintenance is better than breaking down on the road, especially for peace of mind during long trips.
Failing to replace the spark plugs on time can cause ignition difficulties in the BMW X5 engine. I experienced this once when the car suddenly stalled during high-speed acceleration, nearly causing an accident—fortunately, I managed to stop safely. The manufacturer recommends replacement every 60,000 kilometers, which is a reliable interval. Worn-out spark plugs can lead to reduced power or excessive emissions, posing particular risks in rainy conditions. I suggest checking for loose spark plug connections and their combustion condition during routine maintenance to avoid safety hazards. Driving habits like frequent hard acceleration or short trips can also shorten their lifespan, so replacing them a bit earlier is fine. Paying attention to the health of the ignition system ensures driving safety—don’t let small issues affect the bigger picture.
