coolant leak from back of engine. HELP!
 

hi,
the engine started to steam up today near home, 1/2 mile away , coolant level warning on, but the temp gauge did not move.
got it home and notice steam coming up from the back of the engine bay.
once cooled i poured about 6 litres of water in the expansion tank and noticed it was pouring out at the back of the bay on the right hand side (looking at the engine).
i had a good look at the top hoses but couldn't see anything so i think it could be lower down.
does anyone know what it could be?
thanks

2001 x5 4.4

You have heater core hoses back there. One needs replaced. Be weary of the valley pan gasket, but the hoses are your issue most likely.

what is a valley pan gasket and is it a big job

There are hoses carrying coolant on that side of the engine. They are are about level with the bottom of the valve covers. Best way to check them is to remove the engine cover and use a flashlight to check them. It isn't easy but they can be changed without removing the valve covers. The valley pan is a separate issue or no issue at all. Check the hoses first.

Biggest job you'll ever do at your mechanic level. The tool to do the job is 1300 bucks (retail) . Very few people diy.

Replacing the valley pan gasket doesn't need a special tool. And, leaking valley pan gasket won't leak at the rate you are experiencing.

it was pouring out.

Look for coolant hose that has burst. Quite likely starts at the clamp.

i can see the 3 hoses top right of the bulk head. is there any further down.
i have looked for a diagram & images but can't find any.

Look for this piece at the rear of the engine(Real OEM diagram below).
I doubt the Valley Pan gasket would lose coolant that quick.Probably it's like everyone else is mentioning a hose or one of the gaskets between the collector pipe.

RealOEM.com - Online BMW Parts Catalog


Don't be afraid of Valley Pan DIY,it can be done no problem.There a lot of info online.

Don't pay attention to the guy with an opinion about $1300 tool,there's no such a tool for this job.