Glow plug module, or glow plugs?
 

My code is 004A2E "Glow plug cylinder 5, control"

All- I'm very familiar with the fact that glow plugs go on the diesels. I did have a failed thermostat, and had to drive on it for a bit. I would assume I'd have to replace the module. What I'm wondering, is maybe it's just the control module? Being that I could replace the control module without pulling the intake, what're the chances that a new module will fix the issue? I suspect I'm fully capable of taking the manifold off, but right now I have no leaks or issues, and I really prefer to avoid removing the manifold if I can.

$10 says module

My next question, now that I've ordered a controller and will have it today, is: Is it actually possible to remove the controller without removing the intake manifold? I just realized that I only know it's possible on the 335d, but I'm not sure what differences there are with the X5d. I have my x5 fully deleted, EGR race pipe up top.

I suspect you can replace JUST the control module without removing the intake manifold. BUT… the control module is buried on the driver’s side of the engine under a spaghetti of vacuum hoses, etc. Here’s what it looks like with the intake manifold removed.

My repair MO is simple — even BMW parts are cheap, compared to my time and labor — so I replaced all 6 glow plugs and the controller at the same time using the ECS Tuning - Glow Plug Service Kit that includes 6 Bosch glow plugs, the control module, 12 intake manifold gaskets and the throttle body gasket.

More details at https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...ol-module.html

Funf Dreisig

I had the same code and it was just the module. It is possible to do without removing the intake. I did it a few months ago on my x5d. I used this guide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXGnK8UVTF0

Sweet. You managed to reach the connectors on the bottom of the module? Did you remove the coolant line?

I'm thinking I might be able to reach the connectors from below, coming up behind the subframe, next to the driveshaft, and reach up to get to them easier. I'll give it a quick shot on Wednesday I guess. Boy, it would be SO nice to have a lift....

The connectors can be reached with screwdrivers which you can twist. The bigger one has clips on the front and back that you need to press on to release at the same time. It was not difficult to get my hand on the clips but my fingers had to press pretty hard to get them to release. I spent more time trying to release the big connector than anything else. It is typical BMW plastic where you need to press hard to get it to release but run the risk breaking it.

I did not remove the coolant line but I may have unbolted a bolt that holds it down. I am not sure if doing this from the bottom side would help.