How to Service a 1997 BMW 323I

Spark Plugs and Coils
1. Open the hood to access the engine compartment of the 323i. Remove the plastic engine-covers to access the spark plugs and spark-plug coils. Set aside the connectors that hold both of these covers in place.
2. Disconnect each spark-plug coil from its corresponding plug with a screwdriver. Disconnect the necessary spark-plug coils from the valve cover for complete removal.
3. Inspect each spark plug and spark-plug coil combination for signs of wetness, corrosion, overheating and other physical damage.
4. Pull the damaged spark plugs from their respective holes with the necessary wrench size. Turn counter-clockwise until free.
5. Use a torque wrench to load the new spark plugs into the corresponding spark-plug holders. Torque to 18 foot-pounds of measurement.
6. Replace any spark plug coils that are damaged or frayed. Repeat installation steps for each spark plug and coil combination. Replace the engine covers when you are finished.
Air Filter
7. Locate the vertically-mounted air filter that rests on the left-hand side of the 323i. The air filter is optimally replaced once every 10,000 miles to ensure clean air filtering.
8. Pull the air filter out of its position by the housing unit; do this slowly. Do not to spill any dirt and debris on the engine or filter compartment.
9. Clean the area around the air intake system. This area should be cleaned more often than the actual filter replacement to maintain an efficient engine.
10. Pull the old air-filter apart from the housing unit for new installation. Load the new filter into the housing unit. The filter will fit directly into the housing unit.
11. Lower the new filter and housing unit into the filter compartment of the 323i engine. Secure the housing unit tightly.