Coolant level too low message
06-26-2010, 05:35 AM
#2
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Usually you would top off with a 50/50 antifreeze/water mixture. The bigger question is how did the coolant get low in the first place? That would worry me more.
06-26-2010, 05:48 AM
#3
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I agree. If it's only a very small loss that happens over a long period of time, I won't mind as long as it stays a small leak.
Anything special about the antifreeze?
Anything special about the antifreeze?
06-26-2010, 06:36 AM
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this is common that the coolant is low.
I had it 2 time in my old car and I just got the BMW coolant to top it up.
It userly happens in summer hot weather
this is what it looks like
I had it 2 time in my old car and I just got the BMW coolant to top it up.
It userly happens in summer hot weather
this is what it looks like
06-26-2010, 08:23 AM
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Distilled water is what should be used along with antifreeze of course (50/50 mix). Check on your coolant level periodically to make sure you don't have a bigger problem on the horizon.
06-26-2010, 08:27 AM
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06-26-2010, 11:40 AM
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I guess what I'm really asking is about getting some coolant from my local parts house today. I read somewhere that there was a Zerex coolant that was the same stuff minus the blue die. I hate taking anything to the dealership. This is the same prick that told me I couldn't service my car because I could not reset iDrive. I changed my pads this morning for about $100 and they wanted $420 for the same job, and of course we all know how that we can reset the service intervals in iDrive. I'll buy what I have to from BMW but I'm not going to pay twice as much for the same stuff.
06-26-2010, 11:42 AM
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most bmw dealerships do a courtesy top off for coolant fluid...
06-26-2010, 01:26 PM
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You definitely need to investigate coolant loss ... check for leaks, hoses, cracks in plastic cooling parts etc etc ... If the loss is only a few ounces you can top off with distilled water in the interim.
BMW cooling systems are notorious for developing cracks in plastic parts - tanks etc. If you feel your local dealers are hosing you, look for a qualified independent BMW mechanic!
BMW cooling systems are notorious for developing cracks in plastic parts - tanks etc. If you feel your local dealers are hosing you, look for a qualified independent BMW mechanic!
06-26-2010, 03:38 PM
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I had a mysterious coolant loss in my e46 before. Turned out to be a minor leak due to a cracked hose, so when things heated up it would leak but because it was hot it would burn off once it hit the radiator so I never noticed any puddles on the driveway. In terms of topping up i recommend using bmw coolant and ensuring you mix only with distilled water.