I just changed the plugs on my 97 740il with 109,000 miles. I noticed oil pooled around the plugs on top of the head. Is this normal? If not, what is my next repair.

Thank you.

P.S. The car was running great prior to the plug replacement and is still running great.

maybe the seals for the plugs are not there or you need new ones

Mine does the same thing. I'd say it's nothing to worry about if it's only a few drops. If it gets excessive, to the point that the car starts losing oil, replace your valve cover gaskets.

Its good to replace the valve cover gaskets to ensure the oil does not accumulate to the point where it damages the spark plug coil boots. the gaskets are about $30 but the coils are much more expensive

Valve cover gaskets. Not a difficult job. Might want to do some preventative maitenance while in there too.

Thanks guys. This was my first DIY any tips on changing the valve cover gaskits. It's going to have to be done as the amount of oil was significant.

Here's a good writeup: http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/124059


Check www.e38.org for all the goodies.

It could be a number of things, but since you didnt specify if it was one just one plug or all of them ill just be general. 1. Worn Piston Oil control rings. 2 Valve guides leaking in your heads. 3. crack in the oil gallery. 4. and of course the easy fix valve cover gasket replacement, invest in a torque wrench and torque all bolts to spec.

Great write-up. Might be to involved for a new DIYer to undertake. Thanks.

I recommend to change the valve cover gasket. My 740I ran much better after.........

I think that's my next project. Thanks.