Engine Cooling System problems of the 1997 BMW 540

Radiator defect -- plastic neck of radiator connecting to upper hose broke at point of connection while at moderate speed, spraying coolant onto engine and windshield and causing risks of fire and hazardous impairment of visability. This defect is well known to the manufacturer and a recall should be commenced.

Serious safety issue complete loss of coolant at speed. Dt.

Upper radiator neck broke off from radiator during normal driving. Radiator was replaced by dealer with identical component. I expect the radiator will fail again within 80,000 miles from time of incident. Catastrophic failure of the radiator is potentially dangerous due to obscured vision from steam, immediate need to stop the car to prevent further engine damage, etc. Dt.

Radiator and cooling system failed on my 1997 BMW 540i. Car quickly overheated severely and shut down on interstate 5 in stockton, CA with my wife and child in the car. The system failed a second time in March 2002. Same occurance, radiator and cooling system failed on highway 580 in tracy, CA. Car shut down due to failure.