Just a generic question I guess. Seems like my cars eating coolant, and I dont seem to see it leaking, nor am I getting any check fluid warnings. When should one check the fluids of a vehicle? When its cold, the fluid levels read different, than when its warmed up (obvioslly because they expand) So when is it a good idea to check?

Also while on this topic, do the brake and coolants have to be bought from bmw? If not, which ones does one need, and can you get them at a local auto parts store?

 

oh I would check it when it's cold so that all the fluids have settled and get an accurate reading

 

Check coolant before starting the engine. Once it heats up pressure will build in the reservoir, so be careful and remove the cap very slowly, preferably with a gloved hand, and let the gas release. If you drive long enough for the engine to warm up, wait a couple of hours before opening, if you can. it could take even longer.

Check oil levels after the engine has circulated. A good time to check oil is after you stop and fill up your gas tank. Not sure when the best time is to check brake fluid, but I don't think that should vary much in temperature since it's not circulated.

And no, you don't have to buy BMW fluids. just be sure to use fluids that meet their specs.

 

Before you check any of the fluid in the car. Make shore that the car is 100% cold. Best time is just before you going to drive the car 1st time of the day.
I dont know which engine you have but if it is M54 like my then it is easy to check oil.
There is a dip stick on the right side of the engine.
If you have 1 of the new engines too bad you can not check.


For the coolent itis on the left


For the Brake fluid itis on the right

 

i've never checked the brake fluid - does the cap have a dipstick like the steering fluid?

 

The third picture is wrong!

That's the powersteering fluid!

The brakefluid is located under the lefthand side microfilter.

 

Thanks for the replies guys.. anyone have a spec chart of, which fluids can be used for coolant, brake, power steering and oil?

 

o ya sorry about that.
have to take out the micro filter to get to it.
I never check that 1 cos I change the fluid at every 50000km

 

One correction, the new LCI motors -- at least the 550i -- do have a dip stick, it's just hidden at the back right area of the block, with no obvious "handle". Rudy (I think) found it and posted photos here six months or more ago.

 

here is the new photo