Have you ever been driving your BMW and suddenly the coolant light comes up on the car’s dashboard? If that is so, then you may be interested in knowing what it means and what to do afterwards.
Whenever the coolant light illuminates in your BMW, it indicates that there is an issue with the cooling system of the engine. This little light can be a cause for concern, and if you choose to overlook it, then it may lead to some severe problems with your engine. As much as BMWs are known to have excellent engines, they are still sensitive to heat and can quickly get damaged if not kept running cool. Now let us discuss the main reasons for the coolant light illumination in detail.
Why Does the BMW Coolant Light Turn On?
- Low Coolant Level: The most frequent cause of the coolant light is the low level of the coolant. Coolant, or antifreeze, is very important to regulate the temperature of the engine so that it will not overheat. If there is not sufficient amount of coolant in the system, then the engine may get overheated. The coolant may deplete over time through leaks, evaporation, or simply due to the normal deterioration of the fluid.
- Coolant Leaks: A more serious cause of the coolant light is a coolant leak. Should there be a crack in the radiator, hoses, or water pump, coolant will seep out, and the engine will not be adequately cooled. A coolant leak is a serious condition because it results in low levels of coolant in the system, leading to engine overheating.
- Faulty Thermostat: BMWs have a thermostat that regulates the circulation of the coolant in the engine. If the thermostat gets stuck in the closed position, the coolant cannot flow and circulate within the engine, and as a result, the temperature of the engine rises. This may eventually cause your coolant light to pop up and also the engine to overheat. If the coolant light is blinking and the engine seems to be hot, then the thermostat could be the problem.
- Water Pump Issues: The water pump is designed to circulate water around the engine for the sake of cooling. In the case of a defective water pump, there will be inadequate circulation of water, and this results in overheating of the engine. The coolant light may go on if the water pump is faulty, and if not fixed quickly, it can lead to severe damage to the engine.
Ways to Tackle BMW Coolant Light Illumination
- Don’t Ignore the Coolant Warning Light: If you notice that your BMW has a coolant light on, do not dismiss it. The first thing that needs to be done is to stop the car and switch off the engine to avoid the engine overheating, which is very dangerous. It is advised that the engine should be left to cool for about 30 minutes before you open the hood.
- Check the Coolant Level: Next, look at the coolant level on the side of the car in the coolant reservoir. If it is low, add in more of the specific coolant recommended by the manufacturer. If the coolant level is normal and the warning light is still on, however, there may be a problem like a faulty sensor.
- Consult a Mechanic if the Problem Persists: If the cause of the problem is not clear, or if it happens again after the coolant is filled, then it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic. They will be able to check for any problems with the thermostat, water pump, or coolant temperature sensor.
Come To Us For Your BMW Repairs
At Autohaus Sales and Service, we are 
highly skilled when it comes to keeping your BMW running smoothly. If you need help with your cooling system, or any other maintenance concerns, our expert technicians are here to assist you. We are based in Royal Oak, MI but our mechanics have been helping people from all over Huntington Woods, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Troy, and Pleasant Ridge since 1970. Our workshop is stocked with all the necessary equipment and we constantly acquire the latest tools for BMW repairs. Do you need to clear out the coolant light on your BMW? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your BMW in top condition!