E36 & E46 Cooling System Overhaul
Radiator, expansion tank, water pump, thermostat and hoses for the E36 and E46 — the plastic cooling parts these cars are known to crack.
The E36 and E46 cooling systems lean on plastic: the radiator end tanks, the expansion tank, hose flanges and on many engines the water pump impeller and the thermostat housing. With age the plastic turns brittle and something lets go — often with little warning, and an inline six that overheats can warp its head.
An overhaul replaces the ageing parts together rather than one at a time as they fail. We go through yours, put what it needs on the estimate, and you choose what to do now.
Signs it needs doing
- Coolant on the ground or a sweet smell after driving
- The temperature needle moves above the middle
- The low-coolant light comes on, or you keep topping it up
- White crust or cracks on the radiator necks or the expansion tank
What the job covers
- Pressure test of the system
- Radiator, expansion tank and cap
- Water pump and thermostat
- Upper and lower hoses and the plastic fittings
- Coolant flushed and refilled, air bled out
- Fan clutch or auxiliary fan checked
What it costs
Every car is different at this age, so we price it once we have seen yours. You get a written estimate first and approve each job before we start; nothing is added without asking you.
Questions
Can you use a used part from your own shelf?
Should I keep driving if it is overheating?
Where to bring it
3 Series Parts Service
More of what we do
Independent repair shop; not affiliated with or endorsed by BMW AG or BMW of North America. BMW is a registered trademark of BMW AG.