What Kind of Coolant a BMW X4 Takes

A BMW X4 should use BMW-approved, phosphate- and nitrite-free, HOAT (hybrid organic acid technology) ethylene glycol coolant—specifically BMW Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze (often sold as blue “BMW Antifreeze/Coolant” concentrate) mixed 50/50 with distilled water, or an aftermarket coolant that explicitly states BMW approval such as BMW N 600 69.0 or BMW LC-18.

Understanding BMW X4 Coolant Requirements

The BMW X4, like most modern BMWs, relies on a specific type of coolant engineered to protect aluminum engine components, turbochargers, and modern cooling system hardware. Using the correct coolant is critical not only for effective temperature control but also for corrosion protection, water-pump longevity, and to avoid chemical reactions that can damage seals and plastics. While the exact spec can vary slightly by model year and engine, the fundamental rule has remained: use BMW-approved coolant only, properly mixed with distilled water.

The Official Coolant Specification for BMW X4

Across the X4 lineup (F26, G02 and the latest LCI updates), BMW prescribes coolants that meet its internal standards for long-term corrosion and cavitation protection. These coolants are almost always ethylene glycol-based and are dyed a distinctive color for easy identification.

BMW Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze

The primary recommendation for any BMW X4 is BMW Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze, commonly sold through dealerships and authorized retailers. It comes as a concentrate and must be mixed with water before use.

The key characteristics of this coolant include:

• Ethylene glycol base (not propylene glycol)
• Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT)
• Phosphate- and nitrite-free formula
• Optimized for aluminum engines and turbocharged applications
• Typically blue in color in current BMW formulations

These properties ensure compatibility with BMW’s mixed-metal cooling systems and plastic components, helping prevent deposits, scaling, and internal corrosion that can lead to overheating or premature component failure.

BMW Coolant Specification Codes

BMW uses internal specification codes and lists to define what is approved. For late-model X4 vehicles, look for coolants that state compliance with BMW specifications such as:

• BMW N 600 69.0 (older but still widely referenced approval)
• BMW LC-18 (used on many modern BMW gasoline engines)
• Listing as “BMW-compatible” with explicit mention of approval, not just “suitable for European cars”

When in doubt, the vehicle’s owner’s manual and under-hood labels are the final authority for the exact specification applicable to your model year and engine variant.

Model-Year and Engine Differences: Does It Change the Coolant?

While specific engine codes and cooling system layouts have changed as the BMW X4 evolved, the fundamental coolant requirement has remained consistent: a BMW-approved HOAT ethylene glycol coolant.

F26 BMW X4 (First Generation, Approx. 2014–2018)

The first-generation X4 (F26), with engines such as the xDrive28i/xDrive35i and diesel variants in some markets, uses BMW Genuine Coolant with the same HOAT, phosphate- and nitrite-free formulation. No alternate coolant type is specified for these earlier models.

G02 BMW X4 (Second Generation, 2018–Present)

The second-generation X4 (G02), including xDrive30i, M40i and X4 M models, continues with BMW Genuine Coolant specifications. The cooling systems are more thermally stressed because of higher specific output and more extensive use of turbocharging, making adherence to the correct coolant even more important. Some newer technical bulletins and manuals refer to LC-18–approved coolants, but they remain functionally the same category: BMW-approved HOAT ethylene glycol coolant.

Approved Aftermarket Coolant Options

Vehicle owners sometimes prefer aftermarket products for cost or convenience reasons, especially when they cannot easily access a BMW dealership. However, not all “universal” coolants are safe for a BMW X4, so verification of compatibility and approvals is essential.

Identifying Safe Aftermarket Coolants

When considering alternatives to BMW-branded coolant, the most important step is confirming that the product’s technical data sheet or label explicitly lists BMW approvals or exact compatibility.

Look for aftermarket coolants that:

• State explicit BMW approval (e.g., “Approved for BMW N 600 69.0” or “Meets BMW LC-18”)
• Are HOAT or “G48-type” European coolants with BMW listed among supported OEMs
• Are phosphate- and nitrite-free and designed for aluminum engines
• Use an ethylene glycol base, not “universal” blends without OEM listings

Sticking to these criteria helps ensure you are not compromising corrosion protection or compatibility with BMW plastics and gaskets in your X4’s cooling system.

Mixture Ratio: Coolant and Water

The coolant alone is only part of the equation. How you mix it with water significantly affects freezing protection, boiling point, and corrosion resistance. BMW typically sells its coolant as a concentrate to be diluted before use.

Recommended Mix for a BMW X4

BMW’s general recommendation for most climates is a 50/50 mix of BMW coolant concentrate and distilled water. In very cold environments, a slightly stronger concentration can be used but should not exceed certain limits.

Typical guidelines for mixture ratios include:

1. 50% coolant / 50% distilled water – Standard mix; protects to roughly −34 °C (−29 °F) and provides optimal corrosion protection.
2. 60% coolant / 40% distilled water – For extremely cold climates; improves freeze protection but should not be exceeded.
3. Minimum 40% coolant / 60% distilled water – Do not go below this concentration, as corrosion and boiling protection will deteriorate.

Distilled water is strongly preferred to avoid introducing minerals that can cause deposits or scaling inside the X4’s radiator, heater core, and engine passages.

Coolant Color and Why It Matters (and Doesn’t)

Many owners identify coolant by color, but while the color can be a helpful check, it is not a reliable way to determine chemical compatibility. BMW’s current genuine coolant is typically blue, but color alone is not a guarantee.

Reading Coolant Color in a BMW X4

In most late-model BMW X4s, the factory-fill and genuine replacement coolant is blue. However, prior services or improper top-offs by previous owners or shops can change what you see in the reservoir.

Key points about coolant color include:

• Blue coolant – Usually indicates BMW Genuine or a BMW-compatible HOAT coolant, but label confirmation is still necessary.
• Green, orange, pink, or yellow coolant – May indicate non-BMW coolant or mixing; color alone does not confirm chemistry.
• Mixed colors or cloudiness – Can indicate different coolant types have been combined, which is not recommended and may require a full system flush.

While blue typically signals you are in the right family of products, always verify any product you add to your BMW X4 by its specification and not by color alone.

Why the Right Coolant Matters for a BMW X4

The X4’s engines—particularly turbocharged four- and six-cylinder units—operate at high temperatures and rely on precise thermal management. Using the wrong coolant can lead to more than just minor performance issues; it can cause serious, expensive damage.

Risks of Using the Wrong Coolant

Incorrect coolant can damage metal surfaces, seals, and plastic components over time. It may also interact poorly with existing coolant, forming sludge or deposits.

Potential consequences include:

• Corrosion of aluminum components – Leading to leaks, pitting in the cylinder head, and plugged passages.
• Water pump and thermostat damage – Caused by poor lubrication and chemical incompatibility.
• Overheating – Due to deposits clogging the radiator, heater core, or small passages in turbochargers.
• Coolant system leaks – From brittle or swollen seals, hoses, and plastic connectors.
• Warranty issues – If the vehicle is still under warranty and non-approved fluids are found.

Given the cost of modern BMW cooling system repairs, the savings from using generic coolant are quickly erased if problems develop.

How to Check and Top Off Coolant Safely

Routine inspection of coolant level and condition is part of sensible BMW X4 ownership. You do not need dealer-level tools to perform basic checks, but you do need to follow some safety and procedural guidelines.

Checking Coolant Level

The X4 uses a pressurized expansion tank with level markings that allow you to verify the coolant level when the system is cold.

Basic steps to check coolant include:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and let it cool completely (ideally several hours after driving).
2. Locate the coolant expansion tank, usually near the radiator or at the side of the engine bay.
3. Visually inspect the tank for MAX and MIN level markers, often molded into the plastic or indicated by a floating dipstick element.
4. Only if cool, slowly open the cap to equalize pressure, then confirm the level is between MIN and MAX.
5. If low, add a pre-mixed 50/50 BMW-approved coolant/distilled water solution to bring the level up to the proper mark.

If you find yourself topping off frequently, the issue may be a small leak, a failing reservoir, or another cooling system problem that warrants professional diagnosis.

Flushing and Replacing Coolant in a BMW X4

Coolant is not technically “lifetime” in real-world conditions, even if some manufacturers extend service intervals. Over time it degrades, its corrosion inhibitors deplete, and contaminants accumulate.

When and How Often to Change Coolant

BMW’s official intervals can vary by region and generation, but a pragmatic approach—often used by independent BMW specialists—is more conservative than waiting a decade.

Typical coolant replacement guidelines for an X4 include:

• Approximately every 4–5 years or 50,000–60,000 miles (80,000–100,000 km), whichever comes first.
• Sooner if coolant appears rusty, dirty, oily, or if non-approved coolant has been added in the past.
• Whenever major cooling system work is performed (e.g., radiator replacement, water pump replacement, or hose overhaul).

Performing periodic coolant service helps stabilize corrosion protection and reduces the risk of sludge or blockages inside the system—especially important for turbocharged X4 engines.

Key Takeaways for BMW X4 Owners

Choosing the right coolant and maintaining it correctly is one of the simplest ways to protect your BMW X4’s engine and cooling system. It is also an area where a small oversight can have disproportionate consequences.

In practical terms, remember these essentials:

• Use BMW Genuine Coolant/Antifreeze (blue, HOAT, phosphate- and nitrite-free) or an aftermarket coolant explicitly approved for BMW specs like BMW N 600 69.0 or LC-18.
• Mix concentrate with distilled water in roughly a 50/50 ratio for most conditions, avoiding tap water to limit mineral buildup.
• Do not mix random coolant types or rely on color alone; always check labels and specifications.
• Inspect coolant level only when the engine is cold, and address any persistent loss of coolant promptly.
• Plan for coolant replacement every several years rather than assuming it will last for the life of the vehicle.

Following these guidelines will help ensure consistent cooling performance, reduce the risk of expensive repairs, and keep your BMW X4 operating within the temperature range its engineers intended.

Summary

A BMW X4 is designed to run on BMW-approved, HOAT-type, ethylene glycol coolant—most reliably BMW Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant, usually blue, phosphate- and nitrite-free, and mixed 50/50 with distilled water. While certain aftermarket coolants are acceptable if they explicitly meet BMW specifications such as N 600 69.0 or LC-18, generic or “universal” products are risky. Using the correct coolant, mixed properly and replaced at sensible intervals, is essential for protecting the X4’s aluminum engine, turbochargers, and cooling components from corrosion, overheating, and premature wear.

What type of coolant does the BMW X4 use?

The correct BMW X4 coolant type depends on the model year, with older models generally using a blue coolant (G48) and newer models from around 2013-2014 and later requiring HT-12 (green coolant). Both types are available from BMW or from third-party brands that specify compatibility with European vehicles and have the correct OAT (Organic Acid Technology) formula. It is crucial to use the correct type for your specific model to avoid engine damage.
 
This video demonstrates how to top off the coolant in a newer BMW model: 58sBMW of TylerYouTube · Apr 1, 2022
Coolant types by model year

• For most BMW X4 models (including older ones):
  • Blue coolant (G48): This is a common coolant for many BMWs, including those up to around 2018. 
  • Third-party options: Look for brands like Prestone or PEAK that specify “European vehicles” and have a blue color, often labeled as G48. 
• For newer BMW X4 models (approx. 2013/2014 and later):
  • HT-12 coolant: This is a specific, newer formulation that is often green in color. 
  • Third-party options: Look for products explicitly stating compatibility with BMW HT-12 or having a green color for newer models. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: The most reliable source for the correct coolant type is your owner’s manual. 
• Do not mix coolant types: Mixing the wrong types can lead to engine damage. 
• Use distilled water: If you purchase a concentrate, always mix it with distilled water, not tap water. 
• Use the correct technology: Ensure the coolant you choose has the right Organic Acid Technology (OAT) for your BMW. 
• Genuine vs. aftermarket: While genuine BMW coolant is recommended, some third-party coolants are formulated to be compatible and are a viable alternative if they meet the correct specifications. 

Can I use other coolants in a BMW?

The Wrong Coolant Type Can Cause Your BMW to Malfunction
Using the wrong coolant in your BMW engine can cause several problems. Corrosion and damage to water pumps and seals are among them. In addition, if the wrong coolant is used, the radiator and the surrounding hoses can be damaged.

What color is the coolant in a BMW X4?

Notes: Coolant / Antifreeze (Blue) (1 Liter) — Approved for all BMW and MINI engines.; Concentrate. For distilled water, see part # 55 7864 010.

Does BMW need special coolant?

Yes, BMWs require a special coolant, typically a blue or purple coolant that is silicate and phosphate-free. Using a generic coolant can lead to corrosion and system damage due to the specific requirements of BMW’s aluminum engine blocks. It’s crucial to use the correct type, which is formulated with organic acid technology (OAT) to provide superior corrosion protection.
 
This video explains why BMW coolant is special and the risks of using generic coolants: 56sBMW DoctorYouTube · Dec 20, 2024
Key requirements for BMW coolant

• Phosphate and silicate-free: Generic coolants often contain silicates and phosphates that can cause corrosion in BMW’s specific aluminum components. 
• Organic Acid Technology (OAT): BMW coolant is formulated with OAT for better protection against corrosion. 
• Correct color: For many models, the correct coolant is blue. Some newer models may use a different color, like purple (HT12), so it is important to verify the exact requirement for your car’s year. 
• Undiluted: BMW’s genuine coolant is sold undiluted and must be mixed with distilled water, typically in a 50/50 ratio, before use. 

You can watch this video to see how to properly mix BMW coolant with distilled water: 54sJustin BuiceYouTube · Apr 29, 2019
What to do if you need to add coolant

• Use the correct type: If you need to top off your coolant, find out what is currently in your system and match it as closely as possible, or use a compatible option like Zerex G48 if the factory fill is unknown. 
• Mix with distilled water: If you are using undiluted coolant, mix it with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. 
• Check for leaks: If you find yourself frequently adding coolant, there may be a leak in the system that needs to be addressed.