Coolant
The cooling system in the BMW 5 G30 reliably protects the engine from overheating, provided it is correctly filled and properly maintained. This section explains how to check the coolant level and top it up when necessary. For gasoline engines, two circuits must be taken into account. The clear description of the filling procedure, the warnings for a hot engine and information on correct disposal make this section an indispensable guide. Drivers benefit from safe and efficient vehicle operation in all weather.
Vehicle equipment
This chapter describes all standard, country-specific and optional equipment offered in the model series. It therefore also describes equipment that is not available in a given vehicle, for example due to the selected optional equipment or country variant. This also applies to safety-related functions and systems. When using the corresponding functions and systems, observe the applicable laws and regulations.
General
Coolant consists of water and coolant additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suitable for the vehicle. Information on suitable additives is available from a manufacturer's Service Partner or another qualified Service Partner or a specialist workshop.
Safety notes
WARNING If the engine is hot and the cooling system is opened, coolant may escape and cause scalding. There is a risk of injury.
Open the cooling system only when the engine has cooled down.
WARNING Additives are harmful to health, and incorrect additives can damage the engine.
There is a risk of injury and a risk of property damage. Do not allow additives to come into contact with clothing, skin or eyes, and do not swallow them. Use only suitable additives.
Coolant Level
General
Vehicles with a gasoline engine have two cooling circuits. Always check the coolant levels in both coolant reservoirs and top up if necessary.
The coolant level is indicated by MIN and MAX markings. The MIN and MAX markings are located at different points depending on the coolant reservoir.
Depending on the engine variant, the coolant reservoir is located on the right or left side of the engine compartment.
Check the coolant level at the side markings
- Let the engine cool down.
- The coolant level is correct if it is between the MIN and MAX markings.

Check the coolant level in the filler neck
- Let the engine cool down.
- Turn the coolant reservoir cap slightly counterclockwise until excess pressure can escape.
- Open the coolant reservoir cap.
- The coolant level is correct if it is between the MIN and MAX markings in the filler neck.

Topping Up
- Let the engine cool down.
- Turn the coolant reservoir cap slightly counterclockwise until excess pressure can escape.
- Open the coolant reservoir cap.
- If necessary, top up slowly to the correct level. Do not overfill.
- Close the cap.
- Have the cause of the coolant loss rectified as soon as possible.
Disposal
When disposing of coolant and coolant additives, observe the applicable environmental protection regulations.
Test yourself
A quick BMW 5 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.