BMW Coolant
The coolant in your engine plays a vital role in keeping it running correctly. In the summer, it keeps your engine cool, and in the winter, it keeps it from freezing. All BMW models use different types of coolant, and there is no one solution for all. For this reason, Somerset Vehicle Services offers individual BMW coolant advice.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at why coolant is vital for a fully functioning engine, discuss the three main types of coolant to choose from – Organic (OAT), inorganic (IAT) and a mix of both (HOAT) – and review what happens if the wrong type of coolant is used in your BMW.
We’ve got all the information you need about coolants from our BMW experts…
What the Coolant Does in Your BMW
The coolant in your BMW’s cooling system regulates engine temperature. In addition, the engine absorbs excess heat and transfers it to the radiator, where it is released. Coolant is typically a mixture of water and antifreeze – concentrated chemical additives – that lower the freezing point, raise the boiling point and inhibit corrosion within the cooling system of your BMW engine.
Why Do BMW Engines Need Coolant?
BMW vehicles use coolant for six main functions:
Temperature Control: The engine produces heat at a rate of thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm). As engines can reach 120°C in warm climates, coolant transfers this heat away from the engine to prevent overheating.
Eliminates Freezing: The internal liquid could freeze in harsh winter environments without coolant. Vehicles are designed to work as low as -40°C, which is essential.
Corrosion Prevention: Adding additives to the coolant increases the longevity of BMW engines by reducing the risk of rust and corrosion.
Preventing Erosion: When electricity is transferred through a liquid, electrolysis occurs. During electrolysis, coolant prevents engine components from eroding.
Component Durability: Using suitable quality coolant, rubber and plastic tubes are protected and last longer.
Lubrication: For the water pump to seal and function properly, high-pressure, fast-flowing coolant must circulate freely throughout the system.
The BMW you own is a carefully engineered machine designed to use a specific type of coolant. Engine damage can be caused by using the wrong coolant. If the coolant is not replaced as the manufacturer recommends, the same damage can occur.
What Type of Coolant Does BMW Recommend?
The type and amount of coolant recommended for your BMW depends on its model, year, and engine. Use the recommended coolant to ensure proper cooling system function, prevent corrosion, and maintain the vehicle’s overall performance.
Use the correct coolant for your BMW by consulting your owner’s manual or asking a specialist BMW garage for advice.
Weather and Driving Habits Affect BMW Coolant
The BMW cooling system has to work harder in extreme weather conditions. The purpose of coolant is to maintain the engine’s temperature at an optimum level. As the outside temperature rises, the system has to work harder.
Coolant temperatures rise around the engine bay during hot weather, increasing the risk of overheating and component failure. Keeping the engine at a lower speed also reduces airflow, which leads to higher coolant temperatures and increased risk of damage.
In this case, it’s crucial to use the right coolant and amount and replace it at the right time. Among our bespoke BMW technicians are experts in coolant systems and coolant replacement.
The Best Coolant for BMWs With High Mileage
Regularly checking the coolant in BMWs with high mileage is a good idea. This should be done at a specialist garage such as Somerset Vehicle Services, as we have the expertise and tools to test and replace your coolant properly.
Coolant should be changed according to BMW’s recommended intervals. It is also important to flush the system, check for leaks, top up, and bleed it regularly to ensure your BMW stays cool.
The Wrong Coolant Type Can Cause Your BMW to Malfunction
Using the wrong coolant in your BMW engine can cause several problems. Corrosion and damage to water pumps and seals are among them. In addition, if the wrong coolant is used, the radiator and the surrounding hoses can be damaged.
Any leaks or damage to the piping will prevent the coolant from flowing efficiently around the engine bay and engine internals, causing severe damage. In terms of costs, a blown head gasket is the most expensive type of engine failure. Head gasket failure occurs when you neglect your coolant, causing the engine to overheat and metal components to expand.
What Type of Coolant Should You Use for Your BMW?
At Somerset Vehicle Services, we know how to replace and test cooling systems and coolants. You can find information about your BMW coolant type and replacement interval in your BMW user manual. Still, only expert technicians and specialist tools can ensure your BMW engine lasts as long as possible.
Maximising the Performance and Longevity of Your BMW’s Engine
Coolant plays a crucial role when it comes to maximising the performance of your BMW engine. The coolant system in your BMW needs to be inspected regularly and replaced as directed in your user manual.
It’s time to call our team at Somerset Vehicle Services if you see any coolant leaks or if the coolant level falls below the minimum on the tank in the engine bay. We are on hand to deal with any coolant issues with your BMW in a friendly, concise manner.
