I need some help. I started replacing the starter (intermittent no/weak cranking) and have everything apart, but cannot see a way to get the starter out past the coolant pipes (they are the metal upgrade). I'd really prefer not to open the system since there are currently no leaks and I don't want to induce any leaks or have problems with air in the system.

 

I don't think there is anyway to get it out without pulling the pipes. Gotta love German engineering.

 

I found a local indy german car shop that said they could do it. They're finishing what I started. First time I've had to do that, but it's less than having them do the whole job. And, I got to learn how to put it in neutral w/o power!

 

Picked up the car and it starts like it should've all along. AOS to intake pipe broke, but they did a temp fix. Also got faults reset that were hanging out in the background along with the airbag fault. Good experience and they did get the starter out w/o removing coolant pipes.