1991 BMW 525i Coolant Warning light

MOOKMEEK

MEMBER
1991 BMW 525I
2.5L
6 CYL
RWD
MANUAL
197,000 MILES

So yesterday I was adding some anti- freeze and accidentally added too much & it kinda started to overflow. After a few moments the level dropped & I put the cap back on & didn't think much about it. However, today while driving into work (less than 5 miles) the temp gauge started raising higher & higher until as I pulled into my office- the coolant temp warning went on. Steam was coming from the radiator & coolant level seems low. I just needed some advice moving forward. Everything was perfectly functional before I added too much antifreeze. What would you suggest/ advise moving forward.

Sunday, August 2nd, 2015 AT 3:48 PM

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
34,400 POSTS

The problem isn't adding too much to the reservoir. That will just overflow once and spit it out. The problem is why you had to add any to start with. The common suspects are an inoperative fan clutch, a leak, and a leaking cylinder head gasket. Since you saw steam, an external leak is the best suspect. Look for wet spots, especially around hoses and clamps.

If there's a problem with the fan clutch, the overheating will occur at lower speeds, not at highway speeds where natural air flow is sufficient.

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Monday, August 3rd, 2015 AT 11:27 PM