Tools and Materials Needed
- New antifreeze (BMW recommends a 50/50 mixture of BMW Antifreeze and water)
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Funnel
- Old rags or towels
- Large drain pan
- Flat-head screwdriver or pliers
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Car
- Allow your vehicle to cool down.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Open the hood of the car.
Step 2: Locate the Drain Plug
- Locate the drain plug for the coolant on the underside of the radiator.
- It's usually a plastic or metal plug.
Step 3: Place the Drain Pan
- Place a drain pan directly underneath the drain plug.
Step 4: Drain the Coolant
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or pliers to loosen the drain plug.
- Allow the coolant to drain completely into the drain pan.
- Retighten the drain plug once all the coolant has drained.
Step 5: Remove the Overflow Tank Cap
- Locate the overflow tank.
- It's usually a plastic tank near the radiator.
- Remove the cap from the overflow tank.
Step 6: Flush the System
- Connect a water hose to the radiator's inlet port.
- Allow fresh water to flow through the system until it comes out clean from the drain plug.
- Close the drain plug once all the water has been drained.
Step 7: Mix the Antifreeze
- Mix equal parts of BMW Antifreeze and water in a clean container.
Step 8: Fill the System with Antifreeze
- Use a funnel to add the antifreeze mixture to the radiator until it reaches the "FULL" mark.
- Replace the radiator cap.
Step 9: Start the Engine
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Turn the heater to the highest setting to circulate the antifreeze through the system.
- Check for any leaks.
Step 10: Check the Coolant Level
- After the engine has cooled down, check the coolant level in the overflow tank.
- Add more antifreeze if necessary to bring the level to the "FULL" mark.
Step 11: Dispose of Old Coolant
- Properly dispose of the old antifreeze and water mixture according to local environmental regulations.
Step 12: Clean Up
- Use old rags or towels to clean up any spills.
Note: It is important to use BMW Antifreeze or an equivalent that is compatible with your vehicle's engine. Refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
