How hard are glow plugs to change?

schnipps · 6 Dec 2009 at 16:59

My leon tdi mk1 needs one replaced according to vag com, how easy is it to get them out? Or is it a specialist job?

Robzere31 · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:02

10 min job.

The_Dark_Side · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:03

No more complex or time consuming than changing spark plugs on a petrol lump.

schnipps · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:04

Any guides that can be recommended, i take it they just screw out?

Robzere31 · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:05

They just unscrew the same as a spark plug.

The_Dark_Side · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:06

schnipps said:
Any guides that can be recommended, i take it they just screw out?

Disconnect battery, detach power lead from head of glow plug, remove glow plug with a deep socket.

The_Dark_Side · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:12

PLUS, consult your owners manual regarding removing the battery. With older cars it makes no difference but some more modern cars have a specific prodedure.

SB118 · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:33

Don't need to disconnect the battery, just don't turn on the ignition while you're doing the job.

dalin80 · 6 Dec 2009 at 17:49

Although they are never changed anywhere near as often as spark plugs are so expect them to be rustier... and tighter... and to snap.

But apart from that easy enough.

Oh, last month we had a golf in for glowplugs, on undoing the the final plug what felt like the plug loosening normally was actually the ally house cracking in two requiring a new head.

iaind · 6 Dec 2009 at 18:18

In theory they're pretty simple but on some engines they're a right PITA to get to!