Coolant Leak
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From: Originally from Koeln, Deutschland. Enjoying it in Bonita Springs, Florida Now :)
Originally Posted by tex_phil' post='888653' date='May 24 2009, 07:19 PM
Did you replace it yourself Krozi??
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From: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
My Ride: 2004 545i, Sport and Premium package, Titanium Silver with Black Dakota Leather interior
Nice post Phil.
I have been having the same problem. I have about 55k. I used to get the "low coolant" warning every 2-3 months. Bimmers run hot, especially if you drive hard. That's what I was told. Evaporation, etc.. I didn't really believe it. Had it checked by master tech... no leaks. Now I am putting in fluid every 2 weeks! I have been looking for leaks on the ground... can't find any, but it is going somewhere!
I have an appointment for Tuesday.
I have been having the same problem. I have about 55k. I used to get the "low coolant" warning every 2-3 months. Bimmers run hot, especially if you drive hard. That's what I was told. Evaporation, etc.. I didn't really believe it. Had it checked by master tech... no leaks. Now I am putting in fluid every 2 weeks! I have been looking for leaks on the ground... can't find any, but it is going somewhere!
I have an appointment for Tuesday.
Originally Posted by CWS530' post='888525' date='May 24 2009, 04:25 PM
That doesn't sound like it would be that difficult to change yourself. Just a couple of clamps, right?
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Joined: Aug 2008
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From: Zoo York
My Ride: Alpine White 2006 530Xi (SLD)
Had that same issue - turned out to be a hose in my case. Was replaced under warranty, but I saw the bill - it did NOT look like a bill for a hose - more like a radiator. So definitely independent BMW mech or DIY.
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Joined: May 2008
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From: San Antonio, TX
My Ride: 04 525i, 04 Dinan M3
The hose is the one coming from the engine into the radiator it looks like, any idea if there is a DIY anywhere for what can be safely removed? Tbal what is TIS?
Edit:
The return hose is the problem.
Edit:
The return hose is the problem.
on my way home today from work i got low coolant msg on idrive...drove for another 3 miles then i decided to pull over. Opened the hood and there was a very noticeable leak from one of the hoses that was connecting to the radiator right above the fan....located towards the upper right side of the radiator. I didn't feel comfortable driving it, so i had it towed to my mechanic (independent), and by the time the flat bed got there all the coolant had drained...wasn't dripping, more like the hose was taking a piss....color was bright yellow like a highlighter, which i thought it's rare since coolant is bright green. My last coolant related job done was the expansion tank that cracked at about 80K miles. I'm talking to the mechnic tomorrow morning to find out what the damage is, i hope it's not a hefty bill
I'm at 97k miles and on my e39 540 the radiator had to be replaced at 104k miles and that repair set me back about $1K.
I'm at 97k miles and on my e39 540 the radiator had to be replaced at 104k miles and that repair set me back about $1K.
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Joined: Mar 2007
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From: SF Bay Area, CA
My Ride: 545i
Model Year: 2004
I had the same problem a couple of months ago, yes i was out of warranty. Mine was the return hose (#3) on the diagram. I went ahead a bought the hose at the dealer, replaced it and the darn thing still leaked. I know i pushed the hose all the way with the clamps in perfect. One thing i didnt buy was the sensor (#4 on diagram) Went to the dealer again got the sensor, replaced it and it stop leaking. Cost me less than $100 for parts and i did the labor. The clamps are built in the hose, just use a flat head to release. It is pretty simple to do. Good luck.


