Spark plug replacement

[c3nturi0n]

One of OEM spark plugs recently failed on my vehicle.

While i was looking for options, here is somethign i came across on Opie - https://www.opieoils.co.uk/f/100008/715 ... ition.aspx

I was wondering if you guys have any preference / recommendations re which to opt for?

many thanks.

[Jim Haseltine]

I stick with Bosch in my cars unless something else is recommended by the manufacturer. But that's only a personal preference, no other reason, same as I tend to go for Pirelli tyres even though there may be better options.

[Toady1]

I used the OEM Bosch ones in mine. I've actually got a spare set as bought two because I was concerned the originals were fake! They weren't and have now been in the car for a couple of thousand km. The first set were bought from ebay at about £85, the second set I have in my garage cost me €140 and are identical!

[c3nturi0n]

That's what i was aiming for. I do not have brand allegiance r or preference, but when compared Bosch v Denso i would stick with former.

If NGK was thrown into the mix i would've thought twice .

One last q... how easy / challenging is it to replace them (especially back two)?

[Jim Haseltine]

Two tools are useful, a magnetic plug socket and a 110mm(ish) extension bar. You'll probably have to remove the oil separator/PCV from the RH head to get to the rear plug. See this for more info. For the rear plugs you need to insert the socket/bar in place before you attach a ratchet. Refitting, insert the plug in the socket and then lower into place.
Oh, and you may need a tool to pull the coils out if they've not been moved for a while.

[Toady1]

Yes as Jim says, it isn't that hard, but you will have to remove the PCV from bank 1 to access plug #5. The A/C pipes can make access to #10 plug difficult, but as said, put the plug in socket and extension bar and carefully lower it down, then attach the wrench. I've done it twice now, and a third time to replace all coil packs too. Interestingly the coil packs are NGK opposed to Bosch. I used a beefy screw driver to carefully lever the CP's up as they will be very tight! My plugs had done about 40k miles and looked in perfect condition, on a stage2 tune too (well 10k on the stg2).

[Jim Haseltine]

I bought one of these kits (or something similar) as we've a number of coil pack VAG cars in the family. The packs on my other half's A1 are almost impossible to remove without damaging things unless the correct tool is used. It more than paid for itself in just one change of plugs.

[Toady1]

What does it do, just slide under and then used as a lever?

[Jim Haseltine]

There's 4 different tools in the kit. The one that fits the RS slides over the top of the pack and has a loop you pull to lift the pack out. The one that fits the A1 has a couple of hooks that loop under the pack and a T-bar that you pull on.