X5 coolant gushing out
 

I have an 01 BMW X5 4.4L and I am pretty sure the coolant hasnt been properly flushed.

Well when i parked today, coolant started gushing out of hose and i believe into the radiator. Not totally sure yet. I seemed to be gushing out where the it connects. Its a big hose... I am not sure what extent of the problem would be but i have had leaks before and just refilled the coolant when i would get the coolant low signal. Now, its totally gushing out. Can you guys help me figure out possible solutions? Will I be able to refill and drive home, then properly bleed?

Well first let me start out by sayin congrats on locating this website its the right place for your questions...when you started noticing the coolant level going down, and you kept refilling it, that right there should have told you that you need the cooling system replaced. (Prob not the radiator yet). You've got to have it towed to a shop now, since the vehicle should not be driven now..Take it to a place that is familiar with BMW's and German vehicles..Trust me, don't just take it to the shop that works on hondas and fords..they will struggle with it.

I'm not sure how familiar you are with BMW's but they are not the type of vehicle that will just keep going without addressing the problems.. As I'm sure now, upon seeing your problem you are starting to realize that..These vehicles require much more attention and maintenance then your average honda or toyota. BUT...if you maintain the car well, it is definitely worth it...

Could your problem be the dreaded cracked filler neck on the radiator? Driving it home is dependent on the problem and how far you have to go. If it's not too far, filling and driving home with a cool radiator may work. If not, just tow it and not run the risk of damaging your X. Good Luck solving your problem.

Well it starts and temp engine is fine, but i was wondering would the coolant be fine if i drive it. then can home to really figure it out? I know when I park and shut down the car, it acts as if the coolant is being blocked to the radiator.

Thanks so much for the input! I would appreciate more advice. I guess symptoms of not bleeding properly. The reason it started to leak was that the coolant resovior plastic hose broke so i fixed it and then never properly bleed it, so i am wondering if its just that i need to properly bleed it.

The plastic hose is a common failure point on these...it may just need replacing..but on this issue, I would definitely have a professional look at it..No question about that.. If the car isn't leaking a ton of coolant on your drive, try to drive it..but if it pours out and your empty or low on coolant again 5 minutes into your drive, then you know its tow truck time.

got pictures?

no ones mentioned this but have a reputable INDY check it over. I'm guessing your disappearing coolant is valley pan related . Very common problem..

I am afraid its that, but I heard if its the valley pan, the oil would be milky or the coolant would be towards the rear engine or somewhere not in the front, but i could be wrong and it could be that.

on the bright side or not...depending on which route is taken, you could/should do the other things while you are unbuttoning her up....good luck.