How many liters of antifreeze does a BMW 5 Series need?
2 Answers
This vehicle requires 7 to 9 liters of antifreeze. Here is some relevant information about antifreeze: 1. The full name of antifreeze should be antifreeze coolant, and the function of this liquid is not to prevent freezing but to cool. 2. Most cars use water-cooled engines, which rely on antifreeze circulating continuously within the engine for heat dissipation. Antifreeze coolant has two circulation paths in the engine: one is the major cycle, and the other is the minor cycle. When the engine is just started, the antifreeze coolant will undergo the minor cycle, during which the coolant does not pass through the radiator for heat dissipation, which helps the engine warm up quickly. 3. Additionally, when replacing the coolant, it is essential to bleed the air from the cooling system; otherwise, it may affect the normal operation of the cooling system.
As a seasoned driver who has owned a BMW 5 Series for many years, let me talk about how much coolant to add. The amount isn’t fixed—standard models like the 530Li typically require around 7 to 8 liters, while high-performance versions like the M5 may need close to 10 liters. The key is to use BMW-certified coolant, such as the G48 formula, and never switch to generic brands, as they can corrode internal components, leading to leaks or overheating. When adding coolant, the car must be cold. Open the engine bay, check the auxiliary tank’s level, and stop at the MAX mark—don’t overfill. I personally replace the coolant every two years. A quick check method: glance at the level before starting the car in the morning; if it’s below MIN, top it up slightly but not excessively. If you’re unsure about DIY steps, refer to the owner’s manual or consult a repair shop to ensure proper engine cooling and worry-free long-distance drives. Remember, cutting corners can lead to big problems—professional maintenance extends your car’s lifespan, something I’ve learned firsthand.
