Radiator Replacement Guide

  • Remove Radiator Cap

    Twist counter-clockwise to remove vehicle's expansion tank cap.

  • Remove Bleed Screw

    Twist counter-clockwise with a [larger] flathead screwdriver.

  • Allow Coolant to Drain

    Allow vehicle's cooling system to drain until no more coolant flows out.

  • Remove Air Snorkel

    Remove the front and back air intake snorkels by removing the 2 T-15 screws (white arrows).

  • Remove Fan Connector

    Depress the 2 side clips holding the fan shroud electrical connector into place.

  • Remove Intake Screws

    Remove the 2 10MM bolts securing the air intake box into place.

  • Remove Air Intake Hose

    Remove MAF connector by using a flathead to lift up the retention clip. Then, remove the silver band clamp using a flathead.

  • Remove Air Intake Box

    After loosening the silver band clamp, wiggle the air intake box out of place and put it off to the side.

  • Remove Hose Clamp

    Remove coolant recirculation hose band clamp using a flathead screwdriver.

  • Remove Oil Cooler Screw

    Unseat the vehicle's transmission/oil cooler from the fan assembly by removing the T-20 retention screw.

  • Remove Fan Assembly

    Carefully remove the vehicle's radiator by pulling up, while clearing all electrical and coolant lines out of the way.

  • Loosen Upper Hose

    Release the upper radiator hose by fully pulling up on all 3 retention clips shown.

  • Remove Upper Hose

    After all retention clips are loosened, pull carefully but forcefully to detach and remove the upper radiator hose.

  • Remove Lower Hose 1

    Remove lower radiator hose by releasing the retention clip, then pull until hose is released from the radiator.

  • Remove Lower Hose 2

    Remove secondary lower radiator hose by releasing the retention clip, then pull until hose is released from the radiator. (hook pick tool recommended)

  • Remove Oil Cooler Screw

    Remove the oil cooler hose attached to the lower radiator, by removing the T-20/25 screw and backing the hose off.

  • Remove Radiator Screws

    Remove the 2 T-20/25 screws that are mounting the radiator into place.

  • Remove Radiator

    Remove the radiator by carefully pulling up, while clearing all electrical and coolant lines out of the way.

  • Transfer Hardware to New Radiator

    Transfer all applicable hardware to the new radiator (unless not needed). i.e. clips, hoses, screws, etc.

  • Install New Radiator

    Install new radiator in the exact reversal of the removal. (After removing any coolant hose, replacement is recommended and o-ring replacement is required.)

  • Fill and Bleed Cooling System

    Fill your cooling system with approved BMW coolant until full, then carry out cooling system bleed procedure.

    BMW Cooling System Bleed Procedure 
  • DIY Complete!

    Good job replacing your radiator! Be sure to keep an eye out for coolant leaks or any signs of overheating.