17 00 039 Venting cooling system and checking for leaks (M54 / M56)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 15 other vehicles, including the 2005 BMW 330xi, 2005 BMW 330i, 2005 BMW 330Ci, 2004 BMW 330xi, and 2004 BMW 330i. 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.
Only perform these tasks on an engine that has cooled down.
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- E85: Remove radiator cover
Draining coolant:
NOTE:
Use only recommended coolant. See 17 00 005 Draining and adding coolant (M54, M56)
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 OK. when top edge of coolant expansion tank is 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).
If necessary, top up coolant.
NOTE:
Tank mark indicates the fluid level at approx. 20°C.
Check cooling system for leaks.