Coolant / dealer network

[CeEl]

The other day, my Z4 complained that the coolant was getting low upon startup. I had an errand to run close to a BMW dealership that's not the one I usually go to. Still, decided to swing by there, not wanting to risk engine damage by driving to my regular dealership.

I arrived, they greeted me, asked how they could help, and topped off coolant in less than 10 mins while I was waiting.

No paperwork or lengthy registration process etc.

This is the 2nd time I went to (different) dealerships (in different states) for quick service and I have been impressed both times with the lack of red tape... Just genuine quick help and a 'we'll take care of you' attitude. BMW has really created a great service network for our cars.

[ManiacGT]

Did they not query why the coolant was low? Its not normal to loose coolant unless there is a leak in the system, it wasn't filled correctly in the first place, or god forbid there's an issue with the head gasket.

[CeEl]

Originally Posted by ManiacGT

Did they not query why the coolant was low? Its not normal to loose coolant unless there is a leak in the system, it wasn't filled correctly in the first place, or god forbid there's an issue with the head gasket.

No... The warning actually did not pop up again after I started the car after my errand. Apparently, it really just ended to be topped off.

[army_men]

unfortunately I can't say that about all dealers in Canada. But I stay optimistic about the one I usually go to.

[Asbjorn]

Guys please do not wait for the car to warn about low coolant! It wont warn until the coolant is already below minimum on the stick, and it wont warn about overfills either (in case your dealer screwed up).

You need to check by yourself every now and then. Only very few mL seperates min from max btw so be careful not to overfill when low. I believe I need to top up mine every 15.000kms or so, but it is very little that is needed.

[airmarc]

Ive owned my car almost 2 years and its twice (about a year apart) sent a warning about low coolant. Went to dealer both times and they stated it only needed a top off. No issues after.

[ManiacGT]

I wonder why this is... mine has never required additional coolant.

[rking117]

Dealers in my area, please take special note of the message from the OP. I would love to have this kind of service here. So in otherwords when i come in and tell you there is an issue fix it instead of telling me that is how it is supposed to be and me proving to you that it isnt supposed to work like that. Just saying. And BTW I am still waiting for my survey.

[rking117]

Originally Posted by ManiacGT

I wonder why this is... mine has never required additional coolant.

I have seen a loss of coolant when the vehicle get run hard drivng up the water temp over and over. Some vapor does occur and thus will need to be topped off eventually. I am certanly not saying that the OP or other PPL do this, I am just saying that it is common amoung cars that are run harder thus the temp gets hotter.

[fl_cyclist]

Seems to be the vagaries of the models. My 335i never needed topping off for either coolant or oil. My X3 needed coolant topped off every 10 mos or so. My Z4 has needed oild topped off once and it is 9 mos old. In all cases I never had an issue with any BMW dealer doing the service on my cars. The only issue is if you want to leave your car and get a BMW loaner you need to go where you bought the car.

As far as checking regularly, I don't. My view is the electronics are there to tell me when I need to take care of service. A yellow light should not break anything as long as you follow up. Of course I only lease my cars so I don't baby them a lot

[Asbjorn]

I understand the leasing mind-set, but the electronics wont tell you if the DCT is leaking oil (ask me how I know), if the coolant is slightly below min or above max or if any of your filters (air, oil, fuel etc) needs changing/cleaning etc

But I've seen that Benz will warn you if you haven't had coffee for a while haha...

Btw my dealer checks it every time my car is in, and it doesn't say anywhere on my bill if they topped it up afaik. One time I actually caught them trying to top it up even the level was perfect. The employee clearly did not understand the meaning of min and max on the stick.

[fl_cyclist]

Originally Posted by Asbjorn

I understand the leasing mind-set, but the electronics wont tell you if the DCT is leaking oil (ask me how I know), if the coolant is slightly below min or above max or if any of your filters (air, oil, fuel etc) needs changing/cleaning etc

But I've seen that Benz will warn you if you haven't had coffee for a while haha...

Btw my dealer checks it every time my car is in, and it doesn't say anywhere on my bill if they topped it up afaik. One time I actually caught them trying to top it up even the level was perfect. The employee clearly did not understand the meaning of min and max on the stick.

I do keep a quart of oil in my trunk just in case

[jparnes1]

I had a similar pleasant experience while driving away from home. I got a bulb out warning and the nearby dealership had on my way in 30 minutes. That being said, I'm very happy with my local dealership service dept.

[nicknaz]

The coolant seems to be a bit random. My wife's old 328 needed coolant a month into ownership, then never again while none of our other BMWs have needed coolant.

All the members who posted about poor dealers service need to write a letter to BMWNA and find another dealer. I've visited dealers in Chicago, SF, LA and SD and all have been great.

EDIT: I do look for the "centers of excellence" list and try to only go to those dealers