Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
11 12 729 Checking cylinder head for water leaks (N55)
Special tools required:
Heat cylinder head to 60 °.
Check for bubble formation in a water bath.
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove CYLINDER HEAD .
- Disassemble cylinder head . See 11 34 552 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING ALL VALVES (N55) , 11 31 028 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING EXHAUST CAMSHAFT (N55) or 11 31 025 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING INTAKE CAMSHAFT (N55) .
Fit special tool 11 7 190 .
Installation note:
Secure special tool to 15 Newton meters.
Fit special tool 11 4 342 with screws (1). Screw in knurled screw in direction of arrow.
Sealing flange must rest flat.
Secure special tool 11 4 344 with bolts (1).
Heat cylinder head to 60 °.
Check for bubble formation in a water bath.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.