17 11 000 Removing and installing radiator (M52TU, 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 this work after engine has cooled down.

US cars with M56 engine only:

SULEV (Super ultra-low emissions vehicle):

When replacing the radiator, install Prem-Air radiator only (color: black and marked with sticker)!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Follow instructions for working on cooling system. See 17 00... Instructions for working on cooling system.
Draining and topping up coolant. See 17 00 005 Draining and adding coolant (M54, M56)
Remove intake filter housing. See 13 71 000 REMOVE AND INSTALLING INTAKE FILTER HOUSING (M52TU, M54)
Remove fan cowl. See 17 11 031 Replacing fan cowl M52TU / M54 automatic with A/C system

Pull locking clips (1 and 2) upwards and detach coolant hose from expansion tank/radiator.

Installation:

Check sealing rings. Do not under any circumstances coat sealing rings with antiseize agent before installation.

Fig 1: Pulling Locking Clips Upwards

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull locking clip (1) upwards and detach coolant hose from expansion tank.

Installation:

Check sealing rings. Do not under any circumstances coat sealing rings with antiseize agent before installation.

Fig 2: Detaching Coolant Hose From Expansion Tank

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Unlock and disconnect plug connection (1) at level sensor.

Fig 3: Unlocking And Disconnect Plug Connection At Level Sensor

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If automatic transmission is fitted:

Pull lock (1) upwards and remove heat exchanger towards rear.

Installation:

Press lock (1) downwards before pushing on heat exchanger.

The lock must snap audibly into place when the heat exchanger is forced on.

Fig 4: Pressing Lock Downwards

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If automatic transmission is fitted:

Installation:

Check sealing rings, replace if necessary.

Fig 5: Checking Sealing Rings

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Pull locking clip (1) upwards and detach coolant hose from radiator.

Installation:

Check sealing rings. Do not under any circumstances coat sealing rings with antiseize agent before installation.

Fig 6: Detaching Coolant Hose From Radiator

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Release screw (1).

Fig 7: Releasing Screw

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Release screw (1).

Fig 8: Removing Screw

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Lift radiator out of mountings.

Fig 9: Lifting Radiator Out Of Mountings

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