Fuel & ignition

Diesel glow plug

Adds local heat to help a diesel engine’s combustion conditions.

Where it sits

Threaded into a diesel cylinder head.

How it works

The heater supports cold starting and other controlled operating phases; it does not spark like a petrol plug.

Think of it as

A small electric heater in the combustion area.

Symptoms when it fails

Cold-start roughness or glow-system faults can involve plugs, wiring or the controller.

Lifespan

Plugs and filters use engine-specific service guidance. Pumps and injectors are normally assessed through pressure, leakage and electrical tests.

Repair cost

Spark-plug service is usually less involved than direct-injector or high-pressure-pump replacement; coding and access can add work.

The BMW angle

A BMW diesel’s glow system is controlled; forcing power directly to an unknown plug is not a diagnostic method.

Used in

BMW diesel engines equipped with a controlled glow system. Not a substitute for petrol spark plugs.

Sources
Same system

Fuel & ignition