Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2009-2016 BMW 328i xDrive
Fix misfires and restore performance by choosing the right ignition coils for your E90 or F30 model.
- First, identify your engine: N52 (6-cylinder, 6 coils) for 2009-2013 models or N20 (4-cylinder, 4 coils) for 2013-2016 models.
- It is strongly recommended to replace all ignition coils at the same time, not just the one that failed.
- Stick with proven OEM/OE-equivalent brands like Delphi, Bosch, or Eldor for the best reliability and performance.
- Replacing ignition coils is a simple DIY job that can be done in under an hour with basic tools.
Is Your 328i xDrive an E90 or F30? It Matters.
Before buying ignition coils for your 328i xDrive, you must know which engine your car has. The 2009-2016 year range covers two different generations with different engines.
- 2009-2013 328i xDrive (E90/E91/E92 chassis): These models have the 3.0L 6-cylinder 'N52' engine. You will need six ignition coils.
- 2013-2016 328i xDrive (F30/F31 chassis): These models have the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged 'N20' engine. You will need four ignition coils.
Pro Tip: The easiest way to check is to look under the hood. If you see a large plastic engine cover with six distinct runners, you have the N52. If the cover is smaller and more compact, you have the N20. Ordering the wrong number or type of coil is a common mistake.
Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
Ignition coils are a common wear item, and failure is expected over time due to engine heat and vibration. When a coil starts to fail, the symptoms are usually obvious. 🎬 Watch: See a breakdown of common bad ignition coil symptoms. You may experience a rough idle, where the car shakes or vibrates more than usual. Other signs include engine misfires (which can feel like coughing or sputtering), a noticeable loss of power, and worse fuel economy. In more severe cases, a completely failed coil can cause the engine to stall or prevent the car from starting at all. The check engine light will almost always illuminate, storing codes that point to a misfire in a specific cylinder.
Don't Ignore a Misfire
Driving with a misfiring coil can allow unburnt fuel to enter the exhaust system. This can damage expensive components like the oxygen sensors and catalytic converters over time, turning a simple repair into a much costlier one.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
For your BMW, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. The quality can range from OEM-equivalent to budget-friendly options that may not last as long. Cheaply made coils can even risk damaging your engine's computer (DME).
Tier 1: OEM / OE-Equivalent Brands
These brands are the original equipment manufacturers for BMW. Buying one of these is like getting the dealer part without the dealer markup. They offer the best quality, fit, and longevity.
- Delphi: Widely considered the most current and revised OEM supplier for both N52 and N20 engines. Many forum users and mechanics recommend Delphi as the go-to replacement because they addressed premature failure issues found in some earlier Bosch coils.
- Bosch: A long-time OEM for BMW. While some earlier versions had issues, the current production Bosch coils are reliable. They are a solid choice, often available at a slightly lower price than Delphi.
- Eldor: Another highly-regarded OEM supplier, often praised by BMW master technicians for its high-quality construction and reliability on N-series engines.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
These brands produce quality parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a reliable choice if OEM brands aren't available or if you're looking for a balance of price and performance.
- NGK: Famous for their spark plugs, NGK also produces high-quality ignition coils that are a trusted alternative to the OEM brands.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): A well-known aftermarket manufacturer with a reputation for producing durable and reliable ignition components.
- Hitachi: A Japanese manufacturer known for high-quality electronics, their coils are a dependable option.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
These brands offer the lowest price but may come with a trade-off in longevity and durability. They can be a solution for a tight budget, but it's often recommended to use OEM or quality aftermarket brands for a vehicle like a BMW.
- DriveWire, Global Parts, True Tech
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
There are no major recalls for ignition coils on the 2009-2016 BMW 328i xDrive. However, BMW has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to ignition coils. TSB SIB 12 18 14, issued in 2015, recommended that service centers replace all original Bosch coils with the revised Delphi coils on N52 engines if one failed, due to the higher failure rate of the early Bosch parts. Another TSB, SIB 12 15 15, notes that cosmetic corrosion on the metal heat shield of Delphi coils is normal and not a reason for replacement.
Cost to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2009-2016 BMW 328i xDrive
| Part Type | Cost (Parts Only) |
|---|---|
| New OEM/OE-Equivalent (e.g., Bosch, Delphi) | $40 - $75 per coil |
| New Aftermarket (e.g., NGK, Standard) | $35 - $60 per coil |
| New Economy Aftermarket | $31 - $45 per coil |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I replace all ignition coils at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Ignition coils on your car have all been subjected to the same amount of heat and wear. If one has failed, others are likely to fail soon. Replacing them all at once saves you from repeated repairs and ensures consistent engine performance. Many owners also replace the spark plugs at the same time, as the coils must be removed to access them anyway.
Is replacing the ignition coils a DIY job?
Absolutely. For both the N52 and N20 engines, this is one of the easiest maintenance jobs you can do. The coils are located directly on top of the engine, easily accessible after removing the plastic engine cover. Each coil is held by a simple electrical connector and friction or a single bolt. The entire job can typically be done in under an hour with basic hand tools.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket coils?
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) brands like Bosch and Delphi are the same parts used by BMW at the factory. They guarantee a perfect fit and the highest quality. Quality aftermarket brands like NGK are designed to be direct replacements and are also very reliable. Economy brands are cheaper but may not last as long or perform as well, and in some rare cases, can cause further electrical issues.
Are there any "performance" ignition coils worth buying?
For a stock or lightly modified 328i xDrive, there is no significant benefit to using so-called "performance" coils. The stock OEM coils from Delphi, Bosch, or Eldor are more than capable of providing the necessary spark energy. Upgraded coils are typically only considered for heavily modified, high-horsepower engine builds.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12138616153 12137594937 12137571643 12137562744 12137594938
This is a direct ignition 'coil-on-plug' system. The coils for both the N52 and N20 engines have been superseded multiple times. The most current part number, 12138616153, is approved for use on both engines. It is a bolt-on type coil with a female connector gender and male terminal gender.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- BMW 328i xDrive:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your 328i xDrive an E90 or F30? It Matters.
- Symptoms of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- Cost to Replace Ignition Coils on a 2009-2016 BMW 328i xDrive
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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