17 00 039 Venting cooling system and checking for leaks (N52)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 528i, 2008 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 528i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Danger of scalding!
Open sealing cap only after engine has cooled down.

IMPORTANT: Electrical coolant pump!

Only when refilling!

IMPORTANT: Do not fill coolant expansion tank over MAX level as overfilling will cause the coolant to overflow. This may give rise to traces of residual coolant on the expansion tank or in the engine compartment and wrongly suggest possible leakages.

Only when refilling!

Use only recommended coolant .

Perform filling operation slowly.

Adjust coolant level to MAX.

Fig 1: Coolant Level Max Mark

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Close coolant expansion tank.

Installation:

Close cap (1) until the arrow marks line up.

Fig 2: Close Cap So Arrows Align

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IMPORTANT: The following venting procedure is necessary e.g. when a part is replaced in the cooling system or when the cooling system is refilled.

Only when venting!

NOTE: Fill coolant expansion tank up to lower edge of filler neck with recommended coolant . Close cap on expansion tank.
Do not open the coolant expansion tank cap during the venting procedure.

Connect battery charger.
Switch on ignition.
Set heater to maximum temperature, activate "Automatic" button, then reduce fan to lowest setting.
Press accelerator pedal for 10 seconds to floor. Engine must not be started.
The venting procedure is started when the accelerator pedal is pressed and takes approx. 12 minutes.
Then top up fill level in coolant expansion tank with 250 ml above max (see illustration).
Check cooling system for leaks .
If the venting procedure has to be carried out several times, allow DME to drop completely (ignition key removed for approx. 3 minutes), then repeat from Point 3.
Only when venting!

Perform filling operation slowly.

Fill coolant expansion tank with 250 ml above max.

250 ml corresponds to A=18 mm.

Fig 3: Fill Coolant Expansion Tank 250 ml Above Max

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.