Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles

Replacing the Radiator Coolant

Model: BMW Serie 3 E46 - Years 1998-2006
Part: Antifreeze coolant

Lift the vehicle and secure it. Before proceeding, open the radiator cap. Remove the plastic cap located under the radiator using the appropriate tool, then place a pan under the vehicle to collect the used coolant. Allow all the fluid to drain completely. Replace the lower cap and fill the radiator with new coolant to the level indicated on the expansion tank. Start the engine and let it run until the thermostat valve opens. When the engine is cold, top off the fluid if necessary. Antifreeze is a chemical product and should not be disposed of in the environment; it must be taken to designated collection and disposal centers.

Updated on 4 February 2026 by ScegliAuto

Video tutorial

Related tutorials

BMW Serie 3 (2005-2013 / E91, E90, E92) Learn how to top off the coolant on a BMW 3 Series yourself to save on labor costs. First, pull the plastic lever located at the bottom left of the d…
BMW Serie 3 (1998-2006 / E46) Release and lift the hood. Now, remove the cap from the antifreeze circulation system for the radiator. Prepare a container to collect the fluid you …
BMW Serie 3 (2005-2013 / E91, E90, E92) In today's tutorial video, you will learn how to check the coolant or antifreeze level in a BMW 3 Series, and how to top it off if necessary. First, …

Other guides you may be interested in

How to Bleed the Clutch on a Renault Clio?

To bleed the clutch on a Renault Clio, open the bonnet to access the components located in the engine bay: here, you will need to undo the screws that secure the battery in its housing, the intake manifold, and the coolant reservoir. This will allow you to locate the pipe through which the brake fluid flows: by inserting the other end of the pipe into a container, you can press the clutch pedal to expel all the fluid until it fills the container.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos