BMW Cooling System Parts & Accessories for BMW 3 Series E46 (1999-2005)

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The cooling system is arguably the weakest point in numerous BMWs. If you drive an aging BMW or plan on taking your car to the track like we do, we recommend beefing up your cooling system before going to the track. Generally, the main components in your cooling system that are prone to failure include the following: expansion tank, factory hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan (especially if your vehicle comes factory with a clutch fan), and radiator. Factory BMW expansion tanks are plastic and prone to either breaking off at connection points or combusting. As factory rubber hoses age they either crack or break over time - we offer silicone cooling hose upgrades for most applications to avoid future failures. If you have an older vehicle, your water pump likely comes from the factory with a plastic impeller - we offer upgraded water pumps with metal impellers that are far more reliable. Newer model BMWs utilize electric water pumps - BMW spent millions of dollars engineering these water pumps, but they fail so often that we recommend replacing at 60,000 mile service intervals to avoid being stranded on the side of the road. In terms of thermostats, we offer various upgraded thermostats for racing applications. If your BMW utilizes a clutch fan from the factory, we have several options available in terms of universal electric fans - we recommend replacing these to avoid sending brittle plastic fan blades through your hood. For radiators, we recommend swapping out your radiator for one that does not use plastic connection points like your factory radiator.

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Heavy Duty Aluminum Expansion Tank Kit - E46 M3 S54
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:37014879
Part#: 008682LA02
In Stock
Sale - Save 20% $ 434.99

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$ 347.99 USD
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$ 434.99

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$ 347.99 USD
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BMWs are well-known for their problematic cooling systems, which are often a catalyst for irreversible engine damage and a hefty repair bill. The coolant expansion tank—a crucial component responsible for holding hot engine coolant under high pressure—is a common cause of cooling system issues. Unfortunately, BMW chose to manufacture the factory E46 M3 expansion tank out of plastic. After years of exposure to high coolant temperatures, ambient engine bay heat, and chemical-rich antifreeze, the plastic degrades, eventually weakening enough to fail catastrophically.

With this issue in mind, our team of BMW enthusiasts engineered the ultimate cooling system upgrade for E46 M3 owners: a heavy-duty expansion tank built to last! Crafted from durable 5052 TIG-welded aluminum, this tank resists high temperatures and pressures without degrading over time. Unlike the fragile OEM plastic tank, Turner’s design eliminates the risk of cracking, leaking, or failure. Upgrade to our Heavy Duty Aluminum Expansion Tank Kit and say goodbye to expansion tank issues for good!

To guarantee exact fitment, the upgraded tank was designed using advanced 3D CAD modeling. All bungs, nipples, and fittings are precision-machined to ensure a secure seal with factory hose ends. Unlike other aftermarket options, this tank maintains the factory coolant capacity and includes our laser-cut logo plate at the top, providing an accurate fill level. Internal baffles are incorporated to prevent fluid cavitation, eliminating air pockets in the cooling system and avoiding false coolant level warnings during spirited driving.

Engineered for high-performance builds and daily drivers alike, this expansion tank boasts a premium wrinkle black powder coat finish for a clean "OEM+" aesthetic. This tough coating not only enhances appearance but also protects against corrosion for long-term durability. The kit includes a silicone overflow hose, a high-quality level sensor, and an OE expansion tank cap, offering a complete cooling system upgrade. Avoid the risks of the factory expansion tank—upgrade your E46 M3 today and drive with confidence!

Features & Benefits:

Durable 5052 TIG-Welded Aluminum Construction: Ensures long-term reliability and eliminates expansion tank failure. Premium Wrinkle Black Powder Coat Finish: Offers an "OEM+" appearance while preventing corrosion. Factory Coolant Capacity Retention: Maintains the same coolant level as the original design. Laser-Cut Turner Logo Plate: Provides a clear and accurate fill level indicator. Internal Baffles: Prevent the introduction of air pockets during high-performance driving. Precision-Machined External Bungs and Fittings: Ensure a perfect fit for factory hose connections. Kit Includes:

Turner Motorsport Aluminum Expansion Tank Performance Silicone Coolant Overflow Hose Expansion Tank Cap Coolant Level Sensor Product Development:

Our Heavy Duty Aluminum Expansion Tank was designed, engineered, tested, and quality inspected by our Research & Development team. Our development process includes leading-edge product technology: FARO laser scanning for reverse engineering and quality inspection, SolidWorks 3D CAD modeling, rapid prototyping utilizing our in-house 3D printer, and rigorous long-term product testing.

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Mechanical Thermostat Conversion - M52TU/M54
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:20617634
Part#: 008785LA01T
Ships on Nov 11, 2026
Sale - Save 17% $ 376.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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Starting at $ 312.37 USD
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Sale - Save 17%
$ 376.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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Starting at $ 312.37 USD
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Replace the Achilles heel of your factory cooling system with a stout and reliable mechanical thermostat setup.

The factory E46 thermostat housing is a combined unit featuring a plastic housing and a built in thermostat that you cannot replace separately. These plastic all-in-one units are commonly know to crack or fail causing a headache, a trip on the tow truck and possible damage to your engine.

Taking cues from the reliable M50 thermostat setup we designed a an assembly that not only converts your plastic housing into a billet aluminum unit but also swaps out the integrated thermostat for a separate replaceable thermostat. The ability to swap out thermostats separately from the whole housing opens up doors to changing thermostats to different temperature ratings based on your application while also providing lower maintenance costs. No longer do you have to replace the whole housing but just the thermostat itself.

The billet housing is designed to be utilized with E46 M3 upper and lower radiator hoses and also features -16 ORB connections for custom radiator hoses. A major upgrade from the factory and aftermarket plastic units. Our thermostat housing kit can be used by the savvy daily driver or the track hero who wants to ensure the durability of their cooling system.

Key benefits:

Uses M50/S50 mechanical thermostat for increased reliability
Option to use aftermarket colder thermostats if desired
Thermostat can be replaced separately for lower maintenance cost
Barbed hose connections for use with E46 M3 hoses or built in -16 ORB connections for custom radiator hoses
Design:

Machined out of a single piece of billet 6061 aluminum, this thermostat housing will withstand higher prolonged temperatures and abuse for performance applications
Black anodized with engraved Turner logo on the front to match the Turner Motorsports Power Steering Reservoir
Viton gasket for superior sealing performance
For use with E46 M3 radiator hoses 11537830715 and 11537830716
Kit contents:

6061 Billet Aluminum Thermostat Housing
Mechanical Thermostat
Thermostat Housing Gasket
Thermostat Harness
Optional Silicone or Rubber E46 M3 coolant hoses
Product Development:

Our Billet Thermostat Housing upgrade was designed, engineered, tested and quality inspected by our Research and Development team at Turner. Nothing but the highest level of precision and quality through leading-edge product development technology including FARO laser scanning for reverse engineering and quality inspection, SolidWorks 3D CAD modeling, rapid prototyping utilizing our in-house 3D printer and rigorous long term product testing.

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OEM Style Hose Clamps
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:338927
Part#: HOSE-CLAMPS
In Stock
Sale - Save 3% $ 3.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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$ 3.99

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Hose clamps for radiator hoses, coolant hoses, vacuum hoses, or intake hoses. These hose clamps are the same style as your OEM hoses with a smooth inside band to prevent cutting into the hose material.
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Schwaben Coolant Refill/Air Purge Tool
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Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:362940
Part#: 003466SCH01
Ships in 1-3 days
Sale - Save 20% $ 109.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-02-2026

$ 87.99 USD
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When it comes to BMW's we all know the weak point is commonly in the cooling system, many models proving hard to bleed the air pockets out after the refresh. The coolant refill tool solves this problem, ensuring that you get an air pocket free fill. The entire task is as simple as draining the system like normal, reinstalling the drain plugs and hooking the tool up to your refill location. The reason this tool works so well is due to the venturi valve, it converts air pressure from the compressor to vacuum inside the cooling system, then with a twist of a valve sucks coolant right into the system using the vacuum pressure.
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Coolant Vacuum Purge & Refill Tool Set
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Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:402498
Part#: 024948SCH01A
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 115.99

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$ 86.99 USD
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The Schwaben Coolant Vacuum Fill Tool ensures no air pockets get into your cooling system while you're replacing your coolant - intended for use to refill your cooling system, not for removal. Can be used with Schwaben fluid extractors or with shop air - standard air compressor with a minimum rating of 90 PSI (6.2 bar). Includes all fittings and adapters necessary for use, with a molded storage case to keep your Schwaben Vacuum Fill Tool pristine for future use.
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Bav Auto Spill-Proof Coolant / Antifreeze Funnel
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Bav Auto Tools - Corporate Logo
T#:580395
Part#: B8800082
In Stock
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This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
08-19-2026

$ 28.99 USD
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Multiple adapters include to fit a variety of vehicles.

Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:362357
Part#: 001170SCH01A
In Stock
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$ 32.99 USD
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$ 43.99

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$ 32.99 USD
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Replacing the fan clutch on most BMW models requires holding the water pump pulley while removing the fan clutch lock nut. With less than 1 1/2" clearance on some models this project can easily turn into a mechanical nightmare. Using our special slim line fan clutch wrench in conjunction with the appropriate pulley spanner, the removal and installation required only a few moments.
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Bav Auto Fan Clutch Wrench - 32mm
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Bav Auto Tools - Corporate Logo
T#:580348
Part#: B8800019
In Stock
Sale - Save 20% $ 29.99

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$ 23.99 USD
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Used to remove your fan clutch

Schwaben Locking Hose Clamp Pliers
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:377131
Part#: 004170SCH01A
In Stock
Sale - Save 55% $ 63.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-02-2026

$ 28.79 USD
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These pliers feature a spring loaded clamp with a 24" cable and will lock onto the clamp and hold open for easy removal. These pliers are designed to remove metal or plastic self-tightening hose clamps with diameters from 11/16" to 2-1/2" ( 18 to 54mm).
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Bav Auto Tools - Corporate Logo
T#:580397
Part#: B8800084
In Stock
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$ 124.94 USD
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Bav Auto Fan Pulley Holder
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Bav Auto Tools - Corporate Logo
T#:580358
Part#: B8800031
Ships on Feb 1, 2027
Sale - Save 15% $ 23.99

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$ 20.39 USD
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Used to remove your fan clutch
Radiator Pressure Tester Kit
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:391482
Part#: 014710SCH01A
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 205.99

MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. This is the suggested retail price provided by the manufacturer, supplier or seller.

$ 154.49 USD
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$ 154.49 USD
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Are you refreshing your coolant system or having issues with coolant loss? An easy way to test your system for leaks and ensure you're able to maintain pressure without coolant loss is the Schwaben Cooling System Pressure Tester Kit.
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Schwaben Locking Hose Pinch-Off Pliers
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:379950
Part#: 009787SCH01A
In Stock
Sale - Save 15% $ 39.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
05-02-2026

$ 33.99 USD
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Schwaben Locking Hose Pinch-Off Pliers have adequate clamping force to effectively seal large or pressurized cooling system hoses. These pliers are ideal for clamping shut most hoses, ensuring reliability in your automotive tasks. With swivel jaws, they provide even clamping force, making them a versatile tool for various applications.

  • Adequate clamping force for large or pressurized hoses
  • Ideal for clamping shut most hoses
  • Swivel jaws ensure even clamping force
  • Versatile tool for automotive maintenance

WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and/or reproductive harm. For more information, visit http://www.p65warnings.ca.gov.

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Schwaben Long-Reach 32mm Open End Fan Clutch Wrench
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:378938
Part#: 007701SCH01A
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 42.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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$ 32.24 USD
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This tool was specifically designed for the tight clearances needed to remove most BMW fan clutches. Its slim design lets it fit into tight areas, and the extra-long length is ideal for fan shroud clearance. 
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Schwaben & Bav Auto Water Pump And Fan Clutch Tool Kit
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:375872
Part#: 001170SCH01AKT
Ships on Feb 1, 2027
Sale - Save 25% $ 65.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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$ 49.49 USD
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Replacing the fan clutch on most BMW models requires holding the water pump pulley while removing the fan clutch lock nut. With less than 1 1/2" clearance on some models this project can easily turn into a mechanical nightmare. Using our special slim line fan clutch wrench in conjunction with the appropriate pulley spanner, the removal and installation required only a few moments.
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Bav Auto Angled Hose Pinch Plier Set - 2pc
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Bav Auto Tools - Corporate Logo
T#:580379
Part#: B8800058
In Stock
Sale - Save 25% $ 32.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
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$ 24.74 USD
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Angled jaws close, creating a complete seal every time you use them - the jaws are offset, making it possible to use in hard-to-reach locations. Made of glass-filled nylon for extra strength. These are perfect for use with brake lines, etc.
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Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:361021
Part#: DO-3236
In Stock
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$ 19.49 USD
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Why buy two tools when you can get one that will do many jobs like this open end wrench? It is great for removing and installing the fan clutch and plastic oil filter cap. Also works great for removing and installing the VAN0S solenoid on M50 engine family. Use the same tools the Turner Motorsport tech's use!

Features:

  • Made of Chrome Vanadium Steel for strength
  • 32/36mm open end sides

 

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Schwaben Radiator/ Intercooler Fin Comb
10X Entries Into Our F80 M3 Sweepstakes
Schwaben - Corporate Logo
T#:384260
Part#: 015326SCH01A
In Stock
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$ 14.99 USD
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Straighten bent fins in heat exchangers like radiators, condensers, and intercoolers obstruct air flow and reduce heat transfer. Paper-thin fins are easily bent, even by slight pressure.