Radiator Replacement Guide
Materials Required
- Flathead Screwdriver
- 10MM Socket
- T15 Socket
- Ratcher
Overview
Your BMW’s radiator is essential for keeping engine temps in check by dissipating heat from the coolant. Over time, it can crack or clog, leading to overheating or coolant leaks — often visible around the radiator core or lower hose connection.
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 2
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.
DIY Complete!
Good job replacing your radiator! Be sure to keep an eye out for coolant leaks or any signs of overheating.