2001 BMW 330 coolant tank

LOU S.

MEMBER
2001 BMW 330

Engine Cooling problem
2001 BMW 330 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 64k miles

coolant tank is split down the side. I've removed non related items in the way and disconnected upper hoses. Tanks still appears attached at the bottom of tank, but I can't see how or where. Also, sensor wires are attached at bottom of tank. Any idea how the sensor wires are attached to the tank and iis there ample length to allow removal?

3 Replies

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

There are several Torx screws that are easy to see from under the car that may require removal before the tank comes off, also the plastic tanks have a way of getting stuck and often require the use of considerable force to overcome this. I recommend replacement of the radiator at this time as well due to the fact that the plastic used in the tank which has split and needs replacement, is the same as the radiator and is probably ready to fail too, just my personal recommendation as you probably dont want to work on the same problem twice or have the radiator fail and have to tow the car home or overheat the damn thing and possibly damage the engine. Also inspect/replace the water pump and thermostat at this time as these are all failure items at the age and mileage you reported, I know this seems like a lot of trouble but I request you look upon this as an insurance policy for the cooling system and for your peace of mind.

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Sunday, February 8th, 2009 AT 12:07 PM

LOU S.

MEMBER
11 POSTS

Thanks for the quick response. Another solution (for me), is to replace the coolant tank and sell the car. I'm very dissapointed in BMW (auto) component reliability. It's been a seemingly endless effort to replace the small items that surface. I've owned several BMW motorcycles and had NONE of these (and few other) problems. Think my plan is to stick with american trucks and japanese sedans. These issues seem to be a recurring theme with BMW sedans. Think i'll look for another tune.
Thanks!
Lou

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Sunday, February 8th, 2009 AT 12:42 PM

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

I agree with you about the quality of BMW cars. These pieces of engineering garbage disgust me. When you have to tell a customer why he has to spend $1000 to replace this or that and they are back at some time in the near future because the same thing is again broken. From window regulators to final stage units, quality has gone away.

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Sunday, February 8th, 2009 AT 9:33 PM