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1998 BMW 528i

Question: Drain coolant

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Markymark, Kennebunk, ME, September 27, 2009, 08:03
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 Rookie

OK - I drained the coolant from the radiator and drain plug from side of engine block no problem. The manual states refill with 11.1 quarts (50/50). I could barely put 8 quarts into system (properly bled system of air too). Assuming the difference of 3.1 quarts is "stuck" in the heating system, how does one ensure all the coolant gets drained? Also, I used Zerex G-05 coolant which has BMW on the bottle. Does this meet the BMW requirements? Thanks!

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  • Answer #1

    sinautoscan.com September 27, 2009, 09:57
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     Master

    Yeah that coolant should be fine, i suggest you warm up the car let the engine fan come in after that let it cool and refill you need to let the thermostat come in.

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    Markymark, September 27, 2009, 11:13
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    thanks sinautoscan...I did drive car around, made double sure no air in system and it's still full with the 8 quarts. When I had drained the system, I filled it with tap water from the hose and ran the car and heater(to flush). Now I'm concerned I've got 3 quarts of tap water in there instead of distilled!?....

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    Markymark, September 28, 2009, 08:58
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    So now...I take the car on the highway and it red flags me as overheating! What the h...!? Never had a problem before. Just thought it was time to change coolant. Why is car now overheating with 8 new quarts (50/50)?!!

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