Needed this and saw it today!! Believe I have radiator leak and this helped me troubleshoot. Instead of just replacing one part, I figured it’s all going at some point…23 year old car, so radiator, hoses, expansion tank, the whole shebang. 👍👏🏼🙌🏼💪🏼 Thank you!! Love the channel!!
That's the way! Get that whole system freshened up, i highly suggest a pressure tester to double check all your work and to give you peace of mind! cheers
For that, it would be the thermostat, water pump, front mickey mouse flange, upper radiator hose from the oil filter housing, and radiator hoses. O-rings can also become hard, over time, and just need replacing. I had one o-rings leaking. So for a couple dollars, I fixed the leak. If there's anything else I remember, I'll update this comment.
Love it! I have been watching all of your E46 content after buying my son a 2000 323Ci convertible. He wants to learn how to wrench cars (a 25 year old BMW will give him plenty of opportunity, lol), and I've been showing him all of your stuff! Keep it coming!
Hey glad to see you back! I just picked up a 97 528i (E39) that I've been fixing up with my kids. Glad to have your videos as a resource since a lot of the processes are similar. You should get one, they are great to work on and I haven't seen any how-to videos that are as thorough as yours.
Maybe just for knowledge spreading and more audience: also applicable to most e39, m52, m52 tu and other e46's. Just trying to help out. Replaced my rear struts today on my e39's, first time so learned so new things.... Have a good day, Peace.
This couldn’t come a moment too soon even though I don’t have a BMW. I’m about to do the coolant fill and bleed after having replaced the water pump and thermostat, for the first time ever. Had to go back and do my thermostat again as i installed it with the jiggle valve (?) at 6 o clock instead of 12 o clock. I just keep learning more every day. Great video Alec, fantastic detail.
This has to be the very best guide on bleeding M5x engines (in X, 3, 5 & 7 series) anywhere on the Interwebs, friend. Well done. Noone explains the intricacies of unbuttoning the plastics or putting them back together like you, all stuff I had to figure out wrenching on my own. And, as you are so good at providing tips for noobs, I've only one comment to add- to make sure the system (the car) is dead flat, for if its on an angle, or tilted to the side on the side of the road where some of us have to work... the coolant level will be wrong and it may not even bleed the air out. So some of us might need to be told. My driveway is steep, so if working on it I drive in with the front on the high side. I usually fill and initially bleed mine like you do, and then start up, and drive with it cold 50m up the street to a flat part to top it off. I then drive round the block (a few ups and downs) and check the level again assuming the upper hose is not pressurised. On hot days this happens faster, so have to be careful. But that's my home grown method, and I prefer the accuracy of yours- as you don't seem to need to re-check the tank level after its warmed up (I guess because filling on the flat ensures there will only be a small amount of air bubbles left in the system). Simply great explanations, thank you. And important for anyone unfamiliar with the brilliant way these systems are engineered, but need to be looked after/maintained with care. So much better than any of those VW/Audi things produced since all our e39/46s were made. Oh, and I've just thought of one more comment! I had a Rein upper hose fail after a few months, and prefer the Febi/Bilsteins now, the rubber-plastic connections seem better done.
Thanks for the vid Alec! Can't wait till there's a vanos issue to deal with and you get the opportunity to diagnose and talk about faults errors. Especially where INPA vanos readings are frozen and all parts have been replaced 😉
Hey Alec, indeed I had to replace my thermostat last year, the car was running cold all the time. Now it's running great, but we have to stay vigilant... Cheers and thanks for the video!
Great breakdown of the troubleshooting and replacement steps! I’m new to BMWs and this video definitely helps me look for this pesky coolant leaks. Are there any parts that exceed OEM to avoid these issues? I’m assuming preventive maintenance is the key to avoid catastrophic failures in the future. Also, do you use distilled water versus regular water in the cooling system?
Absolute perfect timing, ive been working on my 2005 325i e46 and i have a leak somewhere in the cooling system. I also have a bank 1 and bank 2 code popping up. But i was suggesting it was my water pump for the cooling system..
Great video as always Alec! I always enjoy your content and look forward to your uploads.. we both have the same e46 and like you I have had to refresh my whole cooling system as well. I actually have a few videos up on my youtube channel showing my blown water pump and other items that may be of interest to the e46 community. I look forward to the next one! Cheers from Boston, MA!
Fantastic DIY video Alec. Tons of great tips on how to keep our beloved E46’s cool! I use Nissens brand radiators from FCP Euro all the time. Good products. Also recommend their E46coolkit for when servicing the cooling system. Did ya sell the e30?
how important or not do you feel it is to mix coolant with distilled water opposed to tap? do you think it helps along with the correct coolant used in these cars prevent galvanic corrosion?
Hey Alec, what’s your experience with the cooling system holding pressure? Everytime I go to check my coolant level first thing in the morning (cold engine) the system still has a heap of pressure and when the cap is released, coolant spills out aswell. Keep up the good work 👊
Man... I might need your expertise. I have an 2011 328i... It runs great! I'm getting normal gas mileage too. But... Check engine light is on, multiple cylinder misfires, to include random cylinder misfires. I've replaced all sensors, spark plugs, coils, injectors, etc. I'm stuck...
I was always blown away how such an expensive car company uses plastic all over the engine, etc. I've had my Honda CRV 10 years with the original cooling system.
I have an issue I can’t figure out it’s a 2001 330i with the m54 and after the car warms up, between 30 and 45 mph only, it starts making a burping noise ( best way to explain it) from the rear end while it’s doing it the rpm’s are fluctuating I’ve replaced fuel pump and DMTL pump any insight on this matter would be greatly appreciated it’s also my daily driver
What’s up everyone I’m having problems with getting an engine light sorted out with the code reading po365 I went n changed it did the job but where i’m going wrong i believe is the part is from o’reillys. Overall the car is driving way better than it did with the old sensor however it’s still reading service engine soon and it’s not going away. Don’t know where to go from here if anyone has dealt with this code before or has and idea how to resolve this let me know
@@lieutenantdan8170silicone grease is perfectly fine in cooling systems. It is used in plumbing for the same purpose. There are also liquid silicone (not in aerosol can). Glass cleaner may contain chemicals harmful to the o-rings or other sealers. No need to get creative and overcomplicate stuff.
That’s why cars like M5 usually get mechanically totaled over 100k. They have 30 plus hoses and they all start to fail. It’s either death by thousand cuts or do and engine out refresh of the entire cooling system. Neither one is a good option for a 7-8k car. What a joke how manufacturer get away with this behavior 😂😂
7-8k for a M5? Consider yourself lucky, in my country the cheapest M5 you can find cost 4x that price. With your prices you could replace the whole engine and still have a cheap car
Go To bit.ly/3zEkg55 to check out Flexispot's E7Plus Standing Desk / Workbench!
Needed this and saw it today!! Believe I have radiator leak and this helped me troubleshoot. Instead of just replacing one part, I figured it’s all going at some point…23 year old car, so radiator, hoses, expansion tank, the whole shebang. 👍👏🏼🙌🏼💪🏼 Thank you!! Love the channel!!
That's the way! Get that whole system freshened up, i highly suggest a pressure tester to double check all your work and to give you peace of mind! cheers
bmws chew through parts unintentionally making good content
Good to see you back. Let’s see more of your great BMW videos.
Can you do the same video of common leak points for the E90 with N55?
For that, it would be the thermostat, water pump, front mickey mouse flange, upper radiator hose from the oil filter housing, and radiator hoses. O-rings can also become hard, over time, and just need replacing. I had one o-rings leaking. So for a couple dollars, I fixed the leak. If there's anything else I remember, I'll update this comment.
Love it! I have been watching all of your E46 content after buying my son a 2000 323Ci convertible. He wants to learn how to wrench cars (a 25 year old BMW will give him plenty of opportunity, lol), and I've been showing him all of your stuff! Keep it coming!
Hey glad to see you back! I just picked up a 97 528i (E39) that I've been fixing up with my kids. Glad to have your videos as a resource since a lot of the processes are similar. You should get one, they are great to work on and I haven't seen any how-to videos that are as thorough as yours.
Nice to see you back man I've missed the regular content.
Real
Maybe just for knowledge spreading and more audience: also applicable to most e39, m52, m52 tu and other e46's. Just trying to help out. Replaced my rear struts today on my e39's, first time so learned so new things.... Have a good day, Peace.
This couldn’t come a moment too soon even though I don’t have a BMW. I’m about to do the coolant fill and bleed after having replaced the water pump and thermostat, for the first time ever. Had to go back and do my thermostat again as i installed it with the jiggle valve (?) at 6 o clock instead of 12 o clock. I just keep learning more every day. Great video Alec, fantastic detail.
Solid walkthrough of common troubleshooting tactics for one of the most important parts of the vehicle. Thank you!
Thanks John!!! You’re such a great supporter of the channel dude
This has to be the very best guide on bleeding M5x engines (in X, 3, 5 & 7 series) anywhere on the Interwebs, friend. Well done. Noone explains the intricacies of unbuttoning the plastics or putting them back together like you, all stuff I had to figure out wrenching on my own. And, as you are so good at providing tips for noobs, I've only one comment to add- to make sure the system (the car) is dead flat, for if its on an angle, or tilted to the side on the side of the road where some of us have to work... the coolant level will be wrong and it may not even bleed the air out. So some of us might need to be told. My driveway is steep, so if working on it I drive in with the front on the high side. I usually fill and initially bleed mine like you do, and then start up, and drive with it cold 50m up the street to a flat part to top it off. I then drive round the block (a few ups and downs) and check the level again assuming the upper hose is not pressurised. On hot days this happens faster, so have to be careful. But that's my home grown method, and I prefer the accuracy of yours- as you don't seem to need to re-check the tank level after its warmed up (I guess because filling on the flat ensures there will only be a small amount of air bubbles left in the system).
Simply great explanations, thank you. And important for anyone unfamiliar with the brilliant way these systems are engineered, but need to be looked after/maintained with care. So much better than any of those VW/Audi things produced since all our e39/46s were made.
Oh, and I've just thought of one more comment! I had a Rein upper hose fail after a few months, and prefer the Febi/Bilsteins now, the rubber-plastic connections seem better done.
Thanks for the vid Alec!
Can't wait till there's a vanos issue to deal with and you get the opportunity to diagnose and talk about faults errors. Especially where INPA vanos readings are frozen and all parts have been replaced 😉
Your information is top notch! I appreciate all the explanations and the “why” you do things. Love this channel. Keep up the great work.
Hey Alec, indeed I had to replace my thermostat last year, the car was running cold all the time. Now it's running great, but we have to stay vigilant... Cheers and thanks for the video!
PS: I need to get my ass on the discord ☺
I recently replaced the cooling system on my e46 after watching your previous videos, sure made the job much easier so big thanks 😊
Awesome video as always broski! Looking forward to more content !!
Great breakdown of the troubleshooting and replacement steps! I’m new to BMWs and this video definitely helps me look for this pesky coolant leaks. Are there any parts that exceed OEM to avoid these issues? I’m assuming preventive maintenance is the key to avoid catastrophic failures in the future. Also, do you use distilled water versus regular water in the cooling system?
18:43 I was distracted by the big guns
Great video as always much love from NY….FYI if adding water it’s recommended that you use distilled water.
Would you be so kind (tho you already are anyway :) )to do a diagnose and repair for a engine?? Love all your videos!
Absolute perfect timing, ive been working on my 2005 325i e46 and i have a leak somewhere in the cooling system. I also have a bank 1 and bank 2 code popping up. But i was suggesting it was my water pump for the cooling system..
I enjoyed watching.. I like the part of bleeding i learned how..is it same procedure for e90..may also do video of preventive maintenance.. Thanks
thank you man for your effort! i love your videos
Great video as always Alec! I always enjoy your content and look forward to your uploads.. we both have the same e46 and like you I have had to refresh my whole cooling system as well. I actually have a few videos up on my youtube channel showing my blown water pump and other items that may be of interest to the e46 community. I look forward to the next one! Cheers from Boston, MA!
Great vid can’t wait to start working on my baby like you
Great stuff as always!
Fantastic DIY video Alec. Tons of great tips on how to keep our beloved E46’s cool!
I use Nissens brand radiators from FCP Euro all the time. Good products. Also recommend their E46coolkit for when servicing the cooling system.
Did ya sell the e30?
You are a blessing ive been having trouble with my coolant reservoir its been leaking even though I replaced the whole thing.
Very well detailed explantion. I enjoy watching your content
Took me forever to figure out that I was losing coolant due to my waterpump housing being cracked. Thankfully managed to sort it out though
The fact that the original coolant expansion tank lasted 22 years is insane.
Right?! It’s quite impressive
My diesel bmw never had any cooling problem. But my new g20 gasoline have some low cooling issues but no leaks i replace the cup is better now
If i fix all the leaks on my bmw, how am i supposed to know it has fluids in it?
Another banger
how important or not do you feel it is to mix coolant with distilled water opposed to tap? do you think it helps along with the correct coolant used in these cars prevent galvanic corrosion?
Thank you
Hey Alec, what’s your experience with the cooling system holding pressure? Everytime I go to check my coolant level first thing in the morning (cold engine) the system still has a heap of pressure and when the cap is released, coolant spills out aswell. Keep up the good work 👊
@DayOffDIY I’m changing my transmission in a 09 328i rwd and diff fluid what oil do you recommend?
Using normal water ?
Not recommended! Distilled is the correct way.
Man... I might need your expertise. I have an 2011 328i... It runs great! I'm getting normal gas mileage too. But... Check engine light is on, multiple cylinder misfires, to include random cylinder misfires. I've replaced all sensors, spark plugs, coils, injectors, etc. I'm stuck...
I have to replace my expansion tank it’s leaking where the power steering lines are I believe they rubbed a hole in the tank
I was always blown away how such an expensive car company uses plastic all over the engine, etc. I've had my Honda CRV 10 years with the original cooling system.
I have an issue I can’t figure out it’s a 2001 330i with the m54 and after the car warms up, between 30 and 45 mph only, it starts making a burping noise ( best way to explain it) from the rear end while it’s doing it the rpm’s are fluctuating I’ve replaced fuel pump and DMTL pump any insight on this matter would be greatly appreciated it’s also my daily driver
What’s up everyone I’m having problems with getting an engine light sorted out with the code reading po365
I went n changed it did the job but where i’m going wrong i believe is the part is from o’reillys.
Overall the car is driving way better than it did with the old sensor however it’s still reading service engine soon and it’s not going away. Don’t know where to go from here if anyone has dealt with this code before or has and idea how to resolve this let me know
"common failure points"
Lists whole cooling system lol
Also on cooling system seals i would personally use glass cleaner as lubricant because it will evaporate
@@lieutenantdan8170silicone grease is perfectly fine in cooling systems. It is used in plumbing for the same purpose. There are also liquid silicone (not in aerosol can). Glass cleaner may contain chemicals harmful to the o-rings or other sealers. No need to get creative and overcomplicate stuff.
Slid video!
Bmw leaks everywhere hhhhh
That’s why cars like M5 usually get mechanically totaled over 100k. They have 30 plus hoses and they all start to fail. It’s either death by thousand cuts or do and engine out refresh of the entire cooling system. Neither one is a good option for a 7-8k car. What a joke how manufacturer get away with this behavior 😂😂
7-8k for a M5? Consider yourself lucky, in my country the cheapest M5 you can find cost 4x that price. With your prices you could replace the whole engine and still have a cheap car