17 00 005 Draining off and topping up coolant (M54)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 530i, 2005 BMW 525i, 2004 BMW 530i, and 2004 BMW 525i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Danger of scalding!
Only carry out work on the cooling system after the engine has cooled down!

Recycling

Catch and dispose of drained coolant.

Observe country-specific waste-disposal regulations.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove radiator cover
Remove engine underbody protection
Remove reinforcement plate
Follow instructions for working on cooling system.

Draining Coolant:

Open cap (1) on coolant expansion tank (2).

Installation:

Observe arrow marks on cap and expansion tank.

Fig 1: Opening Cap On Coolant Expansion Tank

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open drain plug (1) on radiator at bottom.

Drain, catch and dispose off coolant.

Fig 2: Opening Drain Plug On Radiator

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Illustrations Show E85:

Open drain plug (1) on engine block.

Drain, catch and dispose off coolant.

Installation:

Replace sealing ring.

Tightening torque, see 11 11 5AZ in ENGINE - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 525i & 530i .

Fig 3: Removing Drain Plug On Engine Block

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Adding Coolant:

Use only recommended coolant.

Vent cooling system.

Check cooling system for leaks.