BMW 740i Ignition Coil Replacement Guide (1993-2002)
Diagnose your E38's rough idle and misfires and choose the right ignition coil to restore its V8 power.
- Before replacing coils, always check for oil leaks from the valve cover gasket into the spark plug tubes; this is a very common cause of failure on the E38.
- Bosch is the OEM supplier; choosing the Bosch aftermarket brand gives you factory quality without the dealer price.
- This is a very easy DIY job that requires only basic tools and can be done in under an hour.
- For best results and long-term reliability, it is strongly recommended to replace all eight ignition coils at the same time.
Is Your 740i Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
A failing ignition coil is one of the most common reasons for a poorly running E38 740i. The symptoms are often very clear. If you feel a stumble or hesitation when you accelerate, a shaky vibration at a stoplight, or if your Check Engine Light comes on, a bad coil is a likely suspect. These coils are exposed to constant heat and vibration, and they simply wear out over time. Another very common cause of failure on the M60 and M62 V8 engines is oil leaking from the valve cover gaskets and soaking the coils, which damages them.
Check for Oil Leaks First!
Before you replace any ignition coils, inspect the spark plug wells for oil. If you see oil pooled around the base of the coils, your valve cover gaskets are leaking. You MUST replace the gaskets, or the leaking oil will ruin your new ignition coils in a short amount of time.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
With many brands available, it can be confusing to choose. For the 1993-2002 740i, the choice is actually quite simple. The brands can be broken down into three main tiers.
Tier 1: OEM and OEM-Equivalent Brands
Brands: Bosch, Delphi, NGK
Bosch was the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for many of the ignition coils on this vehicle. This means buying a Bosch aftermarket coil is like getting the same part that came on your car from the factory, just without the BMW logo and higher price tag. Delphi and NGK are also top-tier OEM suppliers with excellent reputations for quality and reliability. For peace of mind and original performance, sticking with one of these brands is your best bet. It is highly recommended to replace all eight coils at the same time to ensure consistent performance and avoid future failures.
Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
Brands: Standard Ignition, Walker Products, Holstein, Motorad
These brands are well-known in the aftermarket and produce reliable parts that meet or exceed original specifications. They are a solid choice if you are looking for a good balance between price and quality. While they may not have the OEM pedigree of Bosch, they offer a dependable repair for a lower cost.
Tier 3: Economy Brands
Brands: URO Parts, DriveWire, Skyward, Global Parts
These brands focus on providing the lowest possible price. While they can get your car running, owner forums and mechanic experience suggest their lifespan can be unpredictable. They might be a temporary solution if budget is the absolute top priority, but for a car like the 740i, investing in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 brand is a wiser long-term decision to avoid doing the job twice.
Pro Tip: M60 vs. M62 Engines
The 1993-2002 740i used two different V8 engines. The 1993-1995 models have the M60 engine, while the 1996-2002 models have the M62 engine. They use different ignition coils. Be sure to verify your vehicle's production year to order the correct parts. Most of the parts available today are for the more common M62 engine.
Cost to Replace BMW 740i Ignition Coils
| Part Type | Cost Range (Set of 8) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $560 - $880 |
| New Aftermarket (Tier 1) | $240 - $450 |
| New Aftermarket (Tier 2/3) | $223 - $350 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Costs are estimates and may vary based on location and supplier. The job is simple enough that labor should be minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which ignition coil is bad?
The best way is to use an OBD-II scanner. It will give you a code like "P0304," which means cylinder 4 is misfiring. You can then swap the coil from cylinder 4 with one from another cylinder, for example, cylinder 1. Clear the codes and run the engine. If the code changes to "P0301" (misfire on cylinder 1), you've confirmed the coil is bad. If the code stays as P0304, the problem is likely the spark plug or fuel injector.
Should I replace all 8 coils at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Ignition coils are subjected to the same amount of wear. If one has failed, the others are likely near the end of their service life. Replacing them all at once ensures balanced engine performance and prevents you from having to repeat the repair when the next one fails.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
No, this is one of the easiest repairs you can do on a 740i. The coils are right on top of the engine. The job requires only basic hand tools (a 10mm socket and ratchet) and can be completed in under an hour, even for a beginner.
Do I need to use dielectric grease?
Yes, it's a good idea. Applying a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the new coil's boot helps seal it from moisture and makes it much easier to remove the next time you change your spark plugs.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12131748018 12139067830 12137599219
This is a coil-on-plug ignition system. Your V8 engine requires eight individual ignition coils. The coils for the M60 (93-95) and M62 (96-02) engines are different and not interchangeable.
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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 740i:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your 740i Running Rough? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
- Check for Oil Leaks First!
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Tier 1: OEM and OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Tier 2: Quality Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Economy Brands
- Pro Tip: M60 vs. M62 Engines
- Cost to Replace BMW 740i Ignition Coils
- Frequently Asked Questions
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