17 00 039 Venting cooling system and checking for leaks (M54 / M56)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW 325Ci, 2005 BMW 325xi, 2005 BMW 325i, 2005 BMW 325Ci, and 2004 BMW 325xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Danger of scalding! Only perform these tasks on an engine that has cooled down.
Draining Coolant:
The procedure is described in draining and adding coolant, refer to 17 00 005 Draining and adding coolant (M54, M56) .
NOTE:
Use only recommended coolant.
Adding Coolant:
To ensure the cooling system is properly vented, it is absolutely essential to follow the steps below:
- Open cap (1) on coolant expansion tank.
- Open vent screw (2).
- Switch on ignition.
- Set heater control to maximum temperature.
- Set fan to lower speed (so that heater valves open).
- Fill with coolant slowly.
- Close vent screw (2) when bubble-free coolant emerges.
- Pour coolant into coolant expansion tank up to max. cold fill level. Marking (2) is then on a level with upper edge of coolant expansion tank.
- Close coolant expansion tank.
- Allow engine to warm up until thermostat opens.
Checking Coolant Level:
CAUTION:
Check coolant level at a maximum coolant temperature of 30°C.
NOTE:
If ambient temperature exceeds 30°C, allow engine to cool down at least to ambient temperature.
Open cap carefully.
Fluid level is O.K. when top edge of coolant expansion between both markings (1 and 2) on float needle.
Minimum Cold Fill Level:
- Upper edge of coolant expansion tank is level with marking (1).
Maximum Cold Fill Level:
- Upper edge of coolant expansion tank is level with marking (2). See Fig 3.
If necessary, top up coolant.
NOTE:
Tank mark indicates the fluid level at approx. 20°C.
Check cooling system for leaks.