1992 325I Air filter replacement and spark plug replacement

[rdog28]

I'm trying to save myself a few bucks (I have been spending a lot on this car of late) as my local BMW dealer is killing me with labor cost on my 1992 BMW 325I.
I need to replace the air filter and the spark plugs but don't know where they are on the car. The manual isn't helpful for either one of these "fixes".
I'm replacing them with a STP air filter and Bosch Platinum 2 sparkplugs.
Hope someone can help. Thanks in advance.

[polar]

yeah, owners manuals are not good for repairs. you need to get yourself the bently 3-series book. it will show you how to change the plugs, air filter, and tear down and rebuild the entire car if you want.

if you are going to do your own repairs this book is essential.

[buymeabmwm3]

Airbox on the E30 is on the driver's side in the front of the engine bay. Its a big black plastic box. There should be 4 clips around the side of the box that hold it together. Unclipping them will open the airbox and expose the filter. Then just drop in your new one, being careful not to get any dust or dirt into the intake tubing.
The spark plugs are located on the passenger side of the engine itself. Standing on this side of the car, you should see the rusty old exhaust tubes coming out the bottom of the engine. Just above that is a long black set of wires. There should be six of this that terminate into the engine. If you pull gently, directly back without wiggling side to side, on each of these wires they will pop right off. This will expose the spark plugs. Then all you need to do is get a spark plug socket for your wrench (13/16th if I remember right), and unscrew each of them. Careful not to let any gunk get into the exposed holes as this leads directly into each cylinder.

[buymeabmwm3]

Oh, and one more thing. For about 20-30 bucks you can get yourself a K&N replacement air filter. It will be the exact same size as your STP filter and the BMW stock filter. Just drops in the same place. If you were to browse around a bunch on these forums, you would see that most everyone swears by these filters. They improve performance, gas milage, and generally make your life a lot happier. Trust me on this one

[rdog28]

I appreciate all of the good notes. I was able to change both successfully. Once I got my bearings straight, I was able to change the air filter in about 30 secs., and the plugs in about 35-45 mins.
Thanks for the help.