17 00 009 Checking cooling system for water leaks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

00 2 030 . See MAINTENANCE AND GENERAL INFORMATION - SPECIAL TOOLS .
17 0 101
17 0 113
17 0 114 . See COOLING SYSTEM - SPECIAL TOOLS .

WARNING: Danger of scalding!
Only perform this work after engine has cooled down.

Protective measures/rules of conduct:

Wear protective goggles
Wear protective gloves
Observe national/country-specific regulations

IMPORTANT: Risk of slipping due to coolant on the floor.
Danger of injury!

Catch and dispose of drained coolant in drip tray (1) and if necessary special tool 00 2 030 (universal hydraulic lifter).

Recycling:

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.

Fig 1: Identifying Tray And Special Tool 00 2 030 (Universal Hydraulic Lifter)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: Illustrations show M54:

Checking pressure drop in cooling system:

Open cap on coolant expansion tank. Fit special tools 17 0 101 / 17 0 113.

Build up gauge pressure of 2 bar, wait approx. 2 minutes.

Cooling system is impervious to leaks if pressure drop is max. 0.1 bar.

Fig 2: Checking Pressure In Cooling System

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Checking pressure relief valve in cap:

NOTE: Coolant residue can cause the pressure relief valve in the cap to stick, therefore repeat the check procedure on the cap 2-3 times.

Screw cap (1) onto special tool 17 0 114.

Build up pressure with special tool 17 0 101 (hand pump); observe pressure gauge to ascertain when opening pressure is achieved.

Opening pressure of pressure relief valve, See SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 3: Identifying Cap And Special Tool 17 0 114

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.