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

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