oil filter wrench for a 3.0i. £400 repair cost me £12 !!

[willos]

Hi just planning ahead.  Can anyone tell me the cup diameter and how many edges to get the oil filter off.
Thanks
The x5 has been giving me grief for a bit with engine lights and full abs lights on.  took it to my local indy who plugged it in and diagnosed a sticking ICV (idle control valve) and split gaiter.  £400.
Took it home and ordered the intake hose £12 and stripped the intake and cleaned the ICV.
Cleared faults with the 1.4.0 scanner and now running great.  They did charge me £55 for the diagnostics but I must say £400 for that job is a little steep , but the ICV would have been 160 if faulty, but they all get clogged in their lifetime. 

[shadrack]

its six sided and large! cant tell you the size though, theres one in my set and it stops at 32mm i think

[X5Sport]

If memory serves, the size is actually moulded into the cap.  I spotted a small number on mine and it turned out to be the correct size.

Richard

[willos]

RRR  Just seen the oil change on the 3.0i on youtube.  The filter is at the front of the engine at the top and has a 36mm hex of the filter housing.  First time Bimmer for me and  will be the first time ive not had to crawl underneath to change the filter

[X5Sport]

You'll still have to crawl under to drain it though......or do you have a good suction device?  If so, do tell....

Richard