Cooling System - Information on Coolant Refilling

SI B17 01 06
Cooling System

April 2011
Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin supersedes SI B17 01 06 dated September 2007.

[NEW] designates changes to this revision

SUBJECT
Refilling Coolant Systems

MODEL
All

SITUATION

BMW recommends filling the cooling system for protection against freezing down to -34°F (-37°C). This means an antifreeze ratio of 50% antifreeze and 50% water. In severely cold areas, the antifreeze can be increased to 60%, which provides freezing protection down to -62°F (-52°C). Do not exceed a 60% ratio of antifreeze. The specified antifreeze ratio is important, since an insufficient amount would impair anti-freezing and corrosion, inhibiting protection. An excessive amount would not improve freezing protection, but would instead reduce freezing protection. At all times, the antifreeze and water should be pre-mixed before pouring into the engine. If pre-mixing is not performed, damage will occur to the water pump assembly.

Since model year 2004 (and Z4 MY 2003), BMW has been using an engine coolant with a long-term life rating. The long-term antifreeze/coolant must be completely drained and replaced only in conjunction with any Repairs that require replacement of aluminum or metal cooling system components. The corrosion protection for these components is provided only in a new long-term coolant. On all other repairs that involve draining of partial quantities of coolant, replace the drained quantities with new long-term antifreeze/coolant.

[NEW] Refer to SI B17 01 07 and B17 01 10 for additional information regarding BMW long-term antifreeze/coolant, maintenance, repairs, replacement requirements and replacement procedures.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

For information only