A Guide to Ignition Coils for the 2015-2019 BMW M3 (F80)
Keep your S55 engine running smoothly by understanding when and how to replace your ignition coils.
- Stick to OEM supplier brands like Bosch, Delphi, or Eldor for reliability on the S55 engine.
- It is highly recommended to replace all six ignition coils and spark plugs at the same time.
- Symptoms of failure include engine misfires, rough idle, power loss, and a check engine light with P030X codes.
- This is a simple DIY job that most owners can complete in about an hour with basic tools.
Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil
Ignition coils on the high-performance S55 engine are considered a common maintenance item that wears out from heat and stress. When a coil starts to fail, it can cause noticeable problems. The most common symptom is an engine misfire, which can feel like a shake, shudder, or hesitation, especially at idle or under acceleration. You may also experience a loss of power, worse gas mileage, and a rough idle. In most cases, a failing ignition coil will trigger the Check Engine Light on your dashboard.
🎬 See a breakdown of common symptoms and solutions for bad coils.Check Engine Light Codes
If your Check Engine Light is on, a code scanner will likely show codes between P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire) and P0301-P0306 (Misfire Detected in Cylinder 1-6). These codes point directly to a problem in the ignition system, with the coil or spark plug being the most likely cause.
🎬 Watch: Diagnosing misfire issues on the BMW M3 engine.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
For a sensitive, high-performance engine like the S55, the quality of your ignition coil matters. While many brands are available, they generally fall into three tiers.
Tier 1: OEM Supplier Brands
These are the companies that make the original parts for BMW. For the F80 M3, the primary OEM suppliers are Bosch and Delphi. More recently, Eldor has also become an OEM supplier for many BMW models and is highly regarded by enthusiasts. Choosing one of these brands gives you a part that is essentially identical to the one from the dealership, ensuring perfect fit and performance. Many owners on forums recommend sticking with these brands for reliability.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
Brands like NGK and Hitachi have a long history of producing high-quality ignition and electrical components. While they may not be the original supplier for this specific model, they are known for excellent engineering and are a reliable alternative to OEM parts. Some companies also offer "performance" coils that claim a stronger spark, but for a stock or lightly tuned car, a quality OEM-style coil is more than sufficient.
Tier 3: Budget Brands
This category includes lesser-known or private-label brands. While the low price is tempting, quality can be inconsistent. For a high-strung engine like the S55, using a budget coil can be a gamble that leads to premature failure, poor performance, and the need to do the job all over again. It is generally recommended to invest in a Tier 1 or Tier 2 brand for peace of mind.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
If one ignition coil fails and the others are original or have high mileage, it's a wise practice to replace all six at once. Coils wear at a similar rate, and replacing them all together prevents you from having to repeat the repair when the next old coil fails. It's also highly recommended to replace your spark plugs at the same time.
Cost of Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2015-2019 BMW M3
| Part Type | Cost per Coil | Cost for a Set of 6 |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (from dealer) | $65 - $100 | $390 - $600 |
| New Aftermarket (OEM Supplier) | $40 - $65 | $240 - $390 |
| New Aftermarket (Budget) | $31 - $45 | $186 - $270 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 | |
*Prices are estimates and can vary based on location, brand, and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to replace M3 ignition coils myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The ignition coils are located directly on top of the engine and are easy to access after removing the engine cover and airbox. The process involves unplugging a connector and simply pulling the old coil out. No special tools are required, though a 14mm thin-wall spark plug socket is needed if you are also changing the plugs. The entire job for all six coils can typically be done in about an hour.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step DIY guide for replacing your coils and plugs.Should I replace my spark plugs with my ignition coils?
Yes, it is highly recommended. You have to remove the ignition coils to get to the spark plugs anyway, so you save on future labor. Worn spark plugs can also put extra strain on new ignition coils, potentially causing them to fail sooner. For the S55 engine, it's best practice to replace both at the same time.
Are there any recalls for the 2015-2019 M3 ignition coils?
There are no specific recalls for ignition coils on the 2015-2019 BMW M3. Ignition coils are generally considered a wear-and-tear maintenance part. You can always check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle by entering your VIN on the NHTSA website.
What's the difference between Bosch, Delphi, and Eldor coils?
All three are OEM suppliers to BMW. Bosch and Delphi have been used for many years. Eldor is a newer supplier that BMW began using around 2016, and their coils are often considered an updated design. Forum discussions show that owners have had success with all three brands, and for a stock vehicle, any of them will perform reliably. The most important factor is to avoid counterfeit parts by buying from a reputable source.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12138616153 12137594937 12137571643 12138657273 12138647689
Engine: S55; Quantity Required: 6; Connector Type: 3-pin; Design: Coil-on-plug
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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 M3:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil
- Check Engine Light Codes
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
- Tier 1: OEM Supplier Brands
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Budget Brands
- Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
- Cost of Replacing Ignition Coils on a 2015-2019 BMW M3
- Frequently Asked Questions
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