Coolant Refresh

Got a question about your ALPINA ask it here !
You've got the car now you need to know something, techincal advice, specific questions etc.

Moderators: Charles, neil, D4

Post Reply
Grumpyjohn1957
ALP
ALP
Posts: 260
Joined: Fri Nov 27, 2020 10:53 pm

Coolant Refresh

Post by Grumpyjohn1957 » Mon Jan 01, 2024 6:59 pm

I read somewhere that BMW lifetime coolant – like BMW transmission fluid :lol: – is a” lifetime” product.
Conflicting opinions on the web suggest anything from dropping the coolant annually to leaving it 5 years or even longer. Anyone offer an informed opinion on this?
The flush and fill procedure for the B5 is a little complicated I believe. More than likely, I’ll end up having to pay someone who knows what they are doing, if deemed expedient, to change it.
Again, whilst on the subject of fluids, I keep seeing conflicting views on differential & transfer box oils.
The T.box oil was done 40K ago when the engine was swapped but both the diff' oils are from factory.
My gut says change the lot but is it really necessary? A lot of mega mileage older models are still running happily, I'm curious as to how were they maintained.
John
2019 G31 B5 Biturbo Touring #336 - Sophisto Grey
(Brunhilda)

Norrie
ALPINA
ALPINA
Posts: 1729
Joined: Wed Oct 31, 2012 10:35 pm
Location: Horsham West Sussex
Contact:

Re: Coolant Refresh

Post by Norrie » Tue Jan 02, 2024 2:26 pm

Personally I have the coolant and transmission oil changed sporadically. I asked at the BMW factory what "sealed for life meant". The reply was its based on the expectation of the time the first owner will have the car. 50K miles or 3 years it is alleged.

I am happy using an indy who I am completely confident knows what they are doing, we dont run the hurdles of main dealer "schedules". I also change the diff oil.
E65 B7 4.4 V8 supercharged No 106 (1 of 11 B7 built for UK)
F22 M235i - everyday driver
E 39 523i sold May 2023
E92 325i - written off by X5 I was not driving!
E92 335D Twin Turbo - sold to Sytner Alpina
E 60 - 525D new - sold to Cooper BMW
E 60 - 530D new - sold at auction
E 39 - 520i new - sold at auction
E 30 - 316i new Touring - sold at auction
Audi A6 2.5 Tdi had 2
Audi Coupe GT 1986 new
Mitsubishi Gallant & Sigma
Honda accord 2.2 coupe
Ford Escort 1.6 worst car in the world

Post Reply