I smell coolant...and need help

DAG · 09-08-2003, 05:04 PM

I've negotiated the purchase of a CPO 2001 Z3 3.0i Coupe with 33,000 miles on it with my local dealer. The salespeople and I (and one of the service advisors) smell coolant after driving the vehicle, but the service department can find nothing wrong. The sales manager would like me to speak with the service manager --I assume to alay my fears of some significant problem...any thoughts on what would cause the coolant smell (assuming no obviouse leaks/drips/steam from the system). What could be going on interanally and how would one suggest the problem be diagnosed ?

Thanks

Jared at Pelican Parts · 09-09-2003, 07:43 AM

I would maybe check that the coolant system has been bled properly. Do you have any circumstances in which you smell coolant more or less? like more when the engine is cold, or something liek that?

EXtech · 09-09-2003, 09:51 AM

i would also have the dealer pressure check the system. Not a quick test but an extended pressure test. Do you smell coolant in the car? there could be a leaking heater core or connecting hoses. There might also be the possibility the car was serviced and had a coolant flush which may have left residue.

DAG · 09-10-2003, 08:48 AM

After much looking and leak testing (both cold & hot), the shop foreman tells the service manager that it is a "normal condition" - that this engine architecture emits a vapor/coolant smell after being run. This is an M54 based car - the 3.0 engine is probably in 1000s and 1000s of BMW's...does this representation (it a normal condition) ring true to you guys?...The relevant BMW dealer (and I'll know who you are) may not weight in on the issue...

EXtech · 09-10-2003, 10:43 AM

by nature they DO exhibit the coolant odor, especially after heavy driving and in extreme outdoor temps. This is always a tuff bit to swallow for bmw owners but it's true. However, it's always best to be extra sure (through tests) that there is in fact no leaks. So if the leak tests have proven no leaks... then go with it. Enjoy the car!

DAG · 09-10-2003, 12:52 PM

Thanks for the advice...upon first hearing it, it was a little hard to swallow... The system does check out and the car has a bunch of warentee left (original and CPO). Thanks again - dag