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Thread: Coolant consumption

  1. #1
    Join Date
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    Coolant consumption

    I have a 99 328i sedan and I replaced the upper and lower hoses along with the sensor and the expansion tank, and I've still got some sort or coolant consumption or leak. I've pressure tested it and havent found anything. I dont think there is a leak and it's not my head gasket. My secondary airpump is however throwing a code, any ideas?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2017
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    E21, E46

    Coolant consumption

    If you drop pressure on the coolant pressure leak test however no visible leaks then perform a compression / leakdown cylinder test.
    Last edited by RobertDenali; 11-07-2018 at 08:07 AM.

  3. #3
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    The cooling system in the E46 demands that it be properly bled. Go to E46Fanatics and check out a sticky in the cooling system that was written by Mango. You likely have air in the cooling system.

  4. #4
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    2000 E46 328i
    The cap on the expansion tank is prone to leaks. Easy replacement to try.. Get an OEM one, though.

  5. #5
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    03M3 17M540 18A5SB
    Quote Originally Posted by Minimule77 View Post
    I have a 99 328i sedan and I replaced the upper and lower hoses along with the sensor and the expansion tank, and I've still got some sort or coolant consumption or leak. I've pressure tested it and havent found anything. I dont think there is a leak and it's not my head gasket. My secondary airpump is however throwing a code, any ideas?
    You might want tø google or research secondary air pump overhaul or repair on an audi. I've owned audis since 2000 model year and have seen lots of secondary air pump (and those damned combi valve failures...even had a couple of those!) failures online but fortunate not to have one.

  6. #6
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    I replaced the cap when I replaced everything else, I bled it too, you think the consumption could be due to air in the system? I also plan on replacing the air pump.

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Oct 2003
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    Seattle
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    99 M3

    Coolant consumption

    Quote Originally Posted by Minimule77 View Post
    I replaced the cap when I replaced everything else, I bled it too, you think the consumption could be due to air in the system? I also plan on replacing the air pump.
    Yes, air in the system can present as a leak as the air is forced out of the system, though you may want to accomplish a compression leak down test.

    Generally, with a SAP failure, it was a failing SAP valve that allowed exhaust gasses into the pump bearings. If you have a failed pump, it is best to replace the valve.


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