How to Remove an E46 Radiator

1. Pull the hood release lever from inside the vehicle. Open the hood and set the support bar.
2. Find the two bolts that are used to secure the air filter housing. Remove the bolts by using the socket wrench. Loosen the clamp for the air manifold. Pull the air filter housing out and then disconnect the electrical plug. Set the air filter housing aside.
3. Find and remove the bolt that is used to secure the fan. Turn the bolt clockwise or to the right with the socket wrench or a crescent wrench to remove it. Remove the fan and the fan shroud.
4. Locate the expansion tank for the radiator. Disconnect the electrical connector that is on the bottom and then remove the bolts that are securing the tank. Pull the tank up to take it out, and then set it aside.
5. Disconnect the lower hose from the radiator. Let any water that is in the hose drain out.
6. Press the quick disconnect plug on the transmission cooler and then pull it up and out. Let it hang from the connected hoses. Let any coolant in the cooler drain out.
7. Remove the torx screws that are on the left and right sides of the radiator with the torx driver. Push the top of the radiator forward and then lift it up to take it out.