Coolant – BMW 2012 3 Series M3 Сoupe User Manual

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Engine compartment

Mobility

Alternative oil types

If approved oils are not available, you can add
quantities of up to 1 US quart/1 liter of another
oil with the following specifications:

Oil change

Oil changes should only be performed by a
BMW center.

Coolant

Coolant consists of half water and half additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Ask your BMW center about
suitable additives.

Only use suitable additives; otherwise,
engine damage may result. Because

additives are harmful to your health, it is impor-
tant to follow the instructions on the contain-
ers.

Comply with the appropriate environ-
mental protection regulations when dis-

posing of coolant additives.

Coolant temperature

If the coolant and therefore the engine over-
heats, a warning lamp lights up. A message
appears on the Control Display.

Checking coolant level

Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant

can cause burns.

Do not open the engine hood before the
engine has cooled down.

Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then continue turning
to open.

The coolant level is correct if it is between
the maximum and minimum marks in the
filler neck, refer also to the diagram next to
the filler neck.

If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.

Turn the cap until there is an audible click.

Have the reason for the coolant loss elimi-
nated as soon as possible.

Gasoline engine
API SM or higher

Diesel engine
API ILSAC GF-5