E90 320D LCI 2011 Coolant Leak

[Denver_J]

Hi Guys,

Always watching the forum but first-time post and first time problem,
My radiator hose flange is leaking coolant, I can feel the plastic hard pipe that connects to the cylinder head/block has a leak, and large blue hard coolant is forming in that area.

I cant change it because the third screw is like under the intake/manifold. Please can you advise who has had this problem before and recommend someone that can come out and change it? Car in the fourways JHB area.

2011 BMW E90 320D LCI

 

[alwynpv]

I experienced the same on my 2011 e90 320D.

My local mechanic told me it is a shlep, lots of labour, but do-able.

Parts and consumables: R437 ex Vat
Labour: R1035 ex VAT
OCT2021

Your local independent mechanic should be able to do it.

EDIT: need to mention location of my mechanic: Gezina, Pretoria. I know it is too far out of your way, but let me know if you don't find someone willing to do it and I'll give you his details if you want to drive through anyways

 

[DRCraig]

If you take your car to BMW they will have to do a pressure test which I highly recommend as this will point out other possible weak points in your cooling system. I also had my coolant flange replaced earlier this year as I've experienced major coolant loss too.

Approximate quote (excluding VAT):
1. Diagnostic/pressure test: R1300
2. Coolant flange: R282
3. Removing/installing coolant flange: R1733
4. New coolant, bleeding the system doing a post-pressure test: R860
TOTAL EXLCUDING VAT: R4175

 

[husaindindar]

So I've also had to have mine changed.
I DIY'd it to save on labour cost. It is possible to DIY but you need to know your sh1t.

I've also seen guys do it by loosening the intake and just moving it enought to get to the third bolt.

If you are DIYing it, make sure your engine is clear of dirt dust etc, as it will fall into the intake when pulling the manifold out.

 

[Denver_J]

Thanks Guys, I have been to BMW fourways, its R3000 to have it changed labour, parts and coolant. I bought the part, was like R400, sourced a BMW Tech the area that use to work at BMW, will be changing it next weekend. will let you guys know how it goes. Labour and coolant R1500

 

[alwynpv]

Thanks Guys, I have been to BMW fourways, its R3000 to have it changed labour, parts and coolant. I bought the part, was like R400, sourced a BMW Tech the area that use to work at BMW, will be changing it next weekend. will let you guys know how it goes. Labour and coolant R1500

All of that seems fair IMHO.

 

[Denver_J]

Hi Guys, I got it changed this past weekend, My mechanic took under 20 minutes to change the pipe under the intake. Quick fix but common problem on the E90.

 

[Randy ///M]

Hi Guys, I got it changed this past weekend, My mechanic took under 20 minutes to change the pipe under the intake. Quick fix but common problem on the E90.

hello buddy may i ask at what mileage should this be look at or Replaced please ?

 

[husaindindar]

hello buddy may i ask at what mileage should this be look at or Replaced please ?

Mine cracked at around 180 000km. Fortunately it was a hairline crack, so the car was still drivable. Just had to keep topping up. Drove it for a few months with that crack. Some guys had it break and had to stop on the side of the road.

 

[DRCraig]

hello buddy may i ask at what mileage should this be look at or Replaced please ?

Had the similar problem on both my E90 and F30 20d. Coolant flange usually completely fails at the 200 000km mark.

Starts with coolant levels dropping gradually, than rapidly. Whatever you do, do not top up with water.

Get the car checked out immediately.

 

[Denver_J]

hello buddy may i ask at what mileage should this be look at or Replaced please ?

Mine started to leak at 140 000km, that's when i noticed the coolant leak under the car, just get it changed when it leaks.

 

[Randy ///M]

Mine started to leak at 140 000km, that's when i noticed the coolant leak under the car, just get it changed when it leaks.

Than You !

 

[reformer24]

I had a coolant leak on the exact same car, this sorted it:

Found coolant leaks present on connector at side of cylinder head - connector to be replaced to carry out diagnosis on cooling system:
Parts and labour pressure testing 475,00
Connector on side of head (leaking) 450,00
Hose clamp x1 26,17
Coolant 480,00
Labour 1425,00