Spark Plugs

[19Fatboy53]

I have a 2003 911 C4S and what to change out the spark plugs, can anyone out there provide me the process for doing so?

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Carlos

[Wicked 996]

DIY section is a great place to start!

[lex_gs]

The DIY section has some info on changing the plugs but does not tell you that the easiest way to do this job is to remove the rear bumper cover and mufflers. See the DIY tuorial on "Muffler Bypass Pipes" for the removal procedure. Once the bumper cover and mufflers are off its a fairly routine job. Have an assortment of extensions and universals to get at the two plugs that are behind the muffler brackets. The other 4 are easy. I have a C4 with the X51 engine which I think is the same as the C4S and I don't see how it is possible to change plugs without removing bumper cover and mufflers.

[Loren]

The DIY section has some info on changing the plugs but does not tell you that the easiest way to do this job is to remove the rear bumper cover and mufflers. See the DIY tuorial on "Muffler Bypass Pipes" for the removal procedure. Once the bumper cover and mufflers are off its a fairly routine job. Have an assortment of extensions and universals to get at the two plugs that are behind the muffler brackets. The other 4 are easy. I have a C4 with the X51 engine which I think is the same as the C4S and I don't see how it is possible to change plugs without removing bumper cover and mufflers.

You do not need to remove the bumper cover - removing the mufflers gives you more than enough room.

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?/tutorials/article/67-spark-plug-change-instructions/

[belleriver]

I followed the DIY instructions (attached)and did not remove the mufflers and it took me about 6 hours total saved myself $600-$800 easy.

It is a pain in the rear - you just have to stick with it - don't get discouraged - it is possible.

I would go with Loren's suggestion and pull the mufflers as it will likely make the job much easier.

A small rachet that holds a hex bit is very useful.

You can do it!!

996 spark plug change.pdf

[kristian]

I changed mine without removing the mufflers. I have a C4. I just had a bunch of extensions. It took probably two hours. It was tough.But I remember that I had to twist a few of the old ignition coils to get them out, so I started getting error codes. I ended up replacing them all.

KL

I followed the DIY instructions (attached)and did not remove the mufflers and it took me about 6 hours total saved myself $600-$800 easy.

It is a pain in the rear - you just have to stick with it - don't get discouraged - it is possible.

I would go with Loren's suggestion and pull the mufflers as it will likely make the job much easier.

A small rachet that holds a hex bit is very useful.

You can do it!!

Edited April 24, 2010 by kristian

[99911]

I changed mine without removing the mufflers. I have a C4. I just had a bunch of extensions. It took probably two hours. It was tough.But I remember that I had to twist a few of the old ignition coils to get them out, so I started getting error codes. I ended up replacing them all.

KL

I followed the DIY instructions (attached)and did not remove the mufflers and it took me about 6 hours total saved myself $600-$800 easy.

It is a pain in the rear - you just have to stick with it - don't get discouraged - it is possible.

I would go with Loren's suggestion and pull the mufflers as it will likely make the job much easier.

A small rachet that holds a hex bit is very useful.

You can do it!!

[99911]

Just changed the plugs on my '99 996 Cab. without removing the mufflers as part of the 60K service. Can definitely be done with the right tools and a little patience. Highly recommend getting the magnetic spark plug socket. $5 at O'Reilly's and well worth it (the guy at Sears didn't know what I was talking about). I'll try removing the mufflers next time. This site is GREAT! Did the entire 60K service myself thanks to Loren & Co. and I have no doubt I saved major $$$.