E38 - coolant and power steering leaks :(

Hi Guys,

I have 2 issues with the vehicle which are causing me problems.

Firstly, the power steering reservoir is leaking from where it joins one of
the downward hoses that appears to lead to a cooling matrix by the
radiator. I understand that this is a reasonably common problem, and
wondered what kind of costs will be involved in fixing it. Can I simply
purchase a new hose, or do I need to replace the whole reservoir?

My second issue is more serious. I have been using coolant since I got the
vehicle, on average about a litre a month. I did a coolant change on the
vehicle about 3 months ago (as it was due), and used proper BMW coolant
50/50 mix etc. All as per TIS instructions. I had been getting "check
coolant level" check control messages very regularly up to that point, and
I hoped that changing the coolant would resolve whatever issue it was.
When the change was completed, I didn't get the alert for about a month,
but then they started again. I checked the level, and was about a litre
down in the expansion tank. I topped it up again, but after about another
month, it was down again, and I got the alert. I was advised on the forum
that it could be trapped air in the system, but I don't think there can be
that much air. The oil is clean, and so is the coolant, so I don't think it's a
head problem. I can smell coolant in the engine compartment after a long
drive, but can't smell it after a short journey. There is also no sign of
coolant on the ground when I park, so I think it's only leaking when the
engine is hot, and is evaporating. I have read on a US forum about a
"valley seal" that can leak on the M62 engine. I can see no sign of any
hoses leaking anywhere within view, so I'm a bit stuck as to what the
problem could be. I don't want to waste time and money on a new
radiator and water pump (etc) if it can be avoided. I just need to find out
the best way of locating my leak. Have any of you guys had
experience of this issue with the M62? I have heard that the E38's cooling
system is it's achilles heal, and I'm beginning to believe that.

Thanks in advance!


Edited by e24robin