BMW G-48 coolant + Zerex G-05?

[Lead Shoes]

So here is the deal, my expansion tank cracked as they typically do and I lost probably 2qts of coolant + whatever was in the tank.

I can't really wait a week to order g-48 BMW coolant from an online retailer and need to remedy this problem asap, the only close to g-48 coolant I can find is zerex g-05 at the local napa, will it be comparable and compatible if I top off with that?

For the record too I've already replaced the plastic water pump and plastic thermostat neck with metal so the only plastic left is the radiator sides and expansion tank.

 

[CT8]

It is your car but here is a chart. Coolant is so complicated these days. Coolant chart.

 

[Rand]

Originally Posted By: CT8
It is your car but here is a chart. Coolant is so complicated these days. Coolant chart.


That chart isn't very helpful?

*This is strictly a guide. Check your owner’s manual for specified antifreeze usage*

 

[JHZR2]

Btdt:

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=846460


http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=613531

Keep in mind it can take a long time to flush out dyed coolants. I once had some all makes green in there, couldn't get it out!

 

[Lead Shoes]

Ouch that looks like a lot of flushing to remove the green... maybe I'll just wait and run a bit low for a few more short drives with the cold spell coming.

The search function here really isn't great or I probably would have found those already

 

[BMWTurboDzl]

So run to the dealership and buy a jug for $25

 

[Lead Shoes]

Originally Posted By: BMWTurboDzl
So run to the dealership and buy a jug for $25


The nearest one is a bit over 4hrs one way or I would have done that already and not came here asking for substitute brands.

 

[Rand]

amazon? bavauto?

g-05 is very SIMILAR to g-48 but not exactly the same... as in rebottled.

 

[JHZR2]

There are other g-48 like coolants. Pentosin makes one as do a few others. Many auto stores carry a blue coolant these days.

Also see here:

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/3636620/Re:_Zerex_G48_where_to_find_th

Does your car have a block heater?

Id personally probably add the coolant if it's really 2 qts. These systems really don't hold that much. Id probably just add enough pure water if it's going to be warm enough and you've got a block heater (riskier), or enough g-05 mix otherwise to ensure you've got the right protection.

If you can get away with just water, then order some g-48 however, and get it back to spec ASAP. You don't have to add the whole 2 qts.

If you add the g-05, Id probably do a system drain and refill with g-48 come the spring,mout wouldn't sweat it much.

 

[Lead Shoes]

The coolant was rated to -40f when I tested it yesterday so I'm not worried, I overnighted a jug of bmw coolant with amazon prime so I'll just bundle up and walk until I refill it properly.