BMW 540i overheating issue with leaking engine coolant from water pump and support gasket on BMW 540i

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some BMW 540i owners report experiencing overheating issues due to leaking engine coolant from the water pump and support gasket. Common reasons for this overheating include coolant leaks from various components such as the water pump, radiator, and hoses. Additionally, owners emphasize the importance of replacing coolant with the correct mixture, specifically an 80% distilled water and 20% BMW blue coolant blend, along with a bottle of Redline Water Wetter to maintain the cooling system's balance. Furthermore, some owners note that the temperature gauge in BMWs is buffered, which may not accurately indicate overheating until critical engine temperatures are reached, making it essential to monitor the actual temperature via the cluster readout to prevent potential engine damage. Visible leaks from the water pump are often found under the pump at the front of the motor, and inspecting for these leaks and ensuring proper flow through the system after repairs is crucial for preventing further overheating issues.

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