Yes, but not on an Xi, so I'm sure you have additional obstacles. Once loosened, though, you can reach the plug from above to remove it with your fingers. Biggest PIA is the mess: splashes everywhere. I use a piece of flex hose over the drain hole, let the plug drop into it and try to route most of the coolant into a drain pan. May not be possible on an Xi.

 

Yep, just did mine. Expect to make a serious mess. No way to catch it all, it goes EVERYWHERE. It is right by the passenger side motor mount, 13mm if memory serves.

 

Thanks for replies!
My 325xi indeed has limited access to engine plug requiring a 18 inch extension and swivel socket. I beleive I can remove the plug with that, however I foresee a greater challenge installing it without cross-threading and inadequate torque.

For the reply that indicated that they just completed it, did you also have access issues and same concern with reinstalling plug?

 

Also would be best practice to replace the aluminum washer on the drain plug. It is not the same size as some others that you might have lying around, like oil drain plug or vanos banjo fittings.

 

Weird. mine didnt have one, just did it a few weeks ago. No leaks though.

 

The washer tends to stick hard to the block, and considering the location it's easy to overlook or to assume that it is a machined boss on the block itself.

 

I searched for that engine coolant plug on Pelican Parts and several other auto part sites and none show or offer crush washer or seal of any kind for it. I may have to query BMW. Thanks for responding and the heads-up!

 

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=EP33-USA-05-2004-E46-BMW-325xi&diagId=11_2166
It's no. 5 in the attached; PN 07119963200

 

Wow...and there it is...hmmm, perhaps if I searched with the correct part name , gasket ring (huh?) and screw plug...Hey, I sincerely appreciate your helpful response and advise!