Coolant level "dipstick"

ponch37300 · Feb 24, 2016

Finishing up getting this car back to driving again and the coolant was low. I did a pressure test but it only dropped 1 PSI in about 10 minutes and didn't see any leaks. Don't know But anyway I filled the tank back up and when I was reading how to check the level I noticed there is supposed to be the floating dipstick in there that I'm missing. So I can't tell if the tank is full or too full.

Can I order this dipstick part from somewhere? Or do I have to order a whole new tank? Car is a 2004 545i.

For now can anyone tell me how far from the top of the tank or the filler neck the coolant level should be cold? Like to be able to make sure the coolant level is close to where it should be until I can get the new parts. Need to drive it to get tires put on and just want to make sure the coolant is close to being right.

Also, I've read some bleeding procedures about turning the key to on and setting the heat temp to high, fan low and then pressing the gas pedal for 12 minutes to do an auto bleed. I haven't looked yet to see if my car has an electric water pump or not. Does anyone know if I have an electric water pump? And if it isn't electric what is the bleeding procedure for a mechanical water pump?

Thanks

Wgosma · Feb 24, 2016

Input the last 7 digits of your car's VIN number into http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select and you can identify the correct p/n for components for your specific car- ignore the listed pricing however. You can look up the water pump also....I believe on all E60/61 motors it's an electric pump, but double check on that.

You can likely buy replacement parts from FCP Euro, Autohauz and many other online sources, no problem.

You're better off the underfill the expansion tank than overfill....too much fluid and there is no room for it to 'expand' as it heats up when you drive the car. I think if you fill just 1/2 way full you're good to go to the tire store, just keep an eye on the engine temp

Read this tread about bleeding the cooling system http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=898480

Good Luck/Bill

JJosh-530xi-2007Owner · Jun 4, 2023

Hello Ponch,
Where do you able to find the root cause of the coolant leak?
I am facing the same issue where? During the pressure taste, the pressure remains steady, but Somehow, I'm losing coolant drastically. I had measured I lost 3mm of level when I drove for 18 kms.

It would be great if you can share the root cause of losing coolant.

Coolant level "dipstick"

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