BMW Glow Plug Reference — Specifications & Replacement Guide

BMW glow plugs are ceramic or steel-tipped heating elements that pre-heat the combustion chamber for cold starts. Key specifications: resistance – typically 0.5–1.2Ω (steel) or 0.3–0.6Ω (ceramic); torque – 15–25 Nm depending on engine; replacement interval – 60,000–100,000 miles or when fault codes appear.

Common types: Bosch Duratherm (steel), Beru (steel), NGK (ceramic).
Application: Varies by engine family – M47, N47, N57, B47, B57 use different part numbers.
Signs of failure: Difficult starting, white smoke, glow plug warning light, DTCs (P0670–P0676).
Always replace as a set and use correct torque to avoid shearing.

Full specification table, engine-specific applications, installation torque, and common mistakes below.

Glow Plug Specification Table

The table below summarises the key specifications for BMW glow plugs by engine family. Always confirm with the vehicle’s build sheet or VIN for exact part numbers.

Engine Family	Glow Plug Type	Resistance (Ω)	Torque (Nm)	Typical Part Number (Bosch/Beru)
M47 (2.0L diesel)	Steel (Bosch Duratherm)	0.8–1.2	20	0 250 202 0XX
M57 (3.0L diesel)	Steel (Beru)	0.7–1.0	22	GN 0 640 0XX
N47 (2.0L diesel)	Steel / Ceramic (mixed)	0.5–0.8 (steel) / 0.3–0.5 (ceramic)	18	0 250 202 0XX / 0 100 0XX
N57 (3.0L diesel)	Ceramic (NGK)	0.3–0.6	20	0 100 0XX (NGK)
B47 (2.0L diesel)	Ceramic (NGK)	0.3–0.5	18	0 100 0XX
B57 (3.0L diesel)	Ceramic (NGK)	0.3–0.5	20	0 100 0XX

Data compiled from Bosch and BMW workshop bulletins [THIRD-PARTY — BMW TSB].

Glow Plug Types: Steel vs Ceramic

BMW has used both steel and ceramic glow plugs across diesel engine generations. The type affects resistance, durability, and replacement cost.

Steel (metallic) glow plugs – older technology (M47, early N47). More robust but slower heating. Resistance typically 0.8–1.2Ω. More forgiving of torque variations. Common brands: Bosch Duratherm, Beru.
Ceramic glow plugs – used on later engines (N57, B47, B57). Faster heating (0.3–0.6Ω), lower current draw, but more fragile. Ceramic tips can break during removal if not handled carefully. NGK is the primary supplier.
Control module compatibility – never mix steel and ceramic in the same engine; the glow plug control module (GPCM) is tuned for one type. Installing the wrong type can cause premature failure and DTCs.

For engine-specific type, refer to the application table below or check the part number on the existing plugs.

Application by Engine Code

The correct glow plug is determined by the engine code and production date. Use the table below as a guide.

Engine Code	Glow Plug Type	Typical Part Number	Notes
M47D20	Steel (Bosch)	0 250 202 001	Pre-2007 models
M57D30	Steel (Beru)	GN 0 640 002	E60/E61 530d
N47D20	Steel (early) / Ceramic (late)	Varies	Check build date (pre-2013 = steel, post = ceramic)
N57D30	Ceramic (NGK)	0 100 0XX	All N57 engines
B47D20	Ceramic (NGK)	0 100 0XX	Modular diesel
B57D30	Ceramic (NGK)	0 100 0XX	Modular diesel

For exact part numbers, consult the VIN decoder or engine code decoder and then cross-reference with BMW parts databases.

Installation Torque Guidelines

Correct torque is critical to prevent shearing (too high) or loose connections (too low). Always use a torque wrench.

Steel glow plugs – 20–25 Nm (depending on engine). M57 often 22 Nm.
Ceramic glow plugs – 15–20 Nm. N47/B47/B57 typically 18 Nm.
Special considerations – ceramic plugs are more brittle; always apply anti-seize compound sparingly on the threads (but avoid getting it on the tip).
Never use impact tools. A manual torque wrench is required.

For detailed procedure, refer to the torque specifications page.

Real-World Caveats

Glow plug issues often present as hard starting in cold weather, but can also be caused by faulty control modules or wiring. Many owners replace plugs unnecessarily without diagnosing the control circuit. A simple resistance check with a multimeter can identify a faulty plug without removing it.

Ceramic plugs are more prone to breakage during removal, especially if carbon build-up has seized them. Professional tools (impact driver on low setting) and proper technique are recommended. This is well-documented on our N47 timing chain and cold start rattle symptom pages, as poor cold starts are often misdiagnosed.

Common Mistakes

Mixing steel and ceramic plugs – the control module is tuned for one type; mixing can cause DTCs and uneven heating.
Over-torquing – shearing a glow plug in the cylinder head is an expensive repair (head removal often required). Always use a torque wrench.
Ignoring the glow plug control module – a failed module can mimic plug issues. Check for DTCs related to the module (e.g., P0670).
Not using anti-seize – on steel plugs, carbon build-up can seize the threads, making removal difficult. A small amount of anti-seize on the threads (not the tip) helps future removal.
Assuming all N47 engines use the same plug – pre-2013 N47 often had steel; later models switched to ceramic. Always check the production date or existing plug part number.

How to Verify Glow Plug Health

The simplest check is a resistance measurement across the plug terminals (disconnect the connector). Resistance should be within the range specified for your engine type. Use a multimeter on the Ω setting.

For a more comprehensive test, use BMW diagnostic software (ISTA) to check the glow plug control module’s fault memory and perform a cycling test. A specialist can also measure current draw during pre-heating.

If you're unsure, consult our diagnostic wizard or reach out to one of our vetted specialists via the specialist network.

Every Figure SourcedData from Bosch and BMW technical bulletins.

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Last Verified May 2026Reviewed with current BMW part numbers.

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20+ Vetted BMW SpecialistsReal-world verification of glow plug applications.

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100% IndependentNo manufacturer influence – unbiased technical reference.

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Glow Plug Specification Table

Glow Plug Types: Steel vs Ceramic

Application by Engine Code

Installation Torque Guidelines

Real-World Caveats

Common Mistakes

How to Verify Glow Plug Health

Related Specifications & Resources

Engine Code Decoder →

Torque Specifications →

N47 Oil Capacity →

B47 Oil Capacity →

VIN Decoder →

Cold Start Rattle →

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