Isabelle Glio

I have a 2004 545i and have radiator fluid pouring out of somewhere under the motor.
Ive been getting different possible causes.
I am wondering if there is a way to fix this leak, without taking the engine out.
I have already invested a ridiculous amount of money into this car and I am wondering if this is an expensive fix

JayArras

Isabelle, you need to pinpoint the source of the leak before we can offer you any advice. It could just be a cracked hose, which is an easy fix. More commonly, it's the plastic expansion tank, which will be more involved, but not an exorbitant amount to fix. Any garage should be able get it up on a lift for an inspection or perform a pressure test to find the source.


Keep us up to date on the prognosis, and we will be able to help you better.

Cricketts

I would vote for the expansion tank. They seem to give up at 60K +

JayArras

Mine is still going strong at 120,000 miles. Water pump too. You can't make generalities.

BostonJon

both of mine are original at 139k

FormerE30Owner

Agreed. I have 175,000 miles on my expansion tank and it is fine - stick broken however. Did replace lower hose temperature sensor for a leak at 170K and also the water pump which was leaking a bit and noisy. 2005 545 with non-electrical water pump.

johnbennett103

Could be your coolant pipe. See if there is a leak out the front of the block. If so, check out Bimmerfix.com. They have an inexpensive solution to fixing the typical coolant pipe leak. The kit is less than $200, and it worked really well for me. Goodluck

JayArras

Isabelle? Are you still there? Did you ever resolve your problem? Feedback would be great.

BostonJon

Bueller? Bueller?

the OP checked out 5 min after her post and we've just been babbling amognst ourselves since. =)

alfa_romeo55

Jay,

Sorry Bud, but crickets is probably right as my expansion tank suddenly has a pin size hole in the side. Water streams hot when hot.

I need an expansion tank. Anyone out there have one for sale????