BMW 501, 502, 3200 (EU)

Coolant capacity & service interval

BMW 501, 502, 3200 (EU) models utilize coolant with a capacity range of 6,5 to 10 liters. The data covers 6 configurations.

The configuration chart below lists fill volumes and service intervals for each engine and trim variant.

TypeSpecifications
3200 (1961-1963)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10 liter
501 V8 (1955-1958)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10 liter
501/6 (1955-1958)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 6,5 liter
502 3.2 (1955-1961)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10 liter
503 (1955-1959)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10 liter
502 (1954-1961)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10 liter

Additional Notes

  • The BMW 501/6, fitted with a six-cylinder engine, carries a cooling system capacity of 6.5 liters, which is notably lower than the 10-liter figure shared by the V8-powered variants in the same family.
  • The 10-liter cooling system capacity on the 501 V8 (1955-1958) reflects the greater thermal load generated by a V8 engine compared to an inline-six, requiring a larger volume of coolant to maintain operating temperatures.
  • The 502, spanning 1954-1961, and the 502 3.2, spanning 1955-1961, both carry a 10-liter cooling system capacity, indicating no change in coolant volume between the two displacement variants of the 502 line.
  • The BMW 3200 (1961-1963) shares the same 10-liter cooling system capacity as the earlier V8 models, suggesting a consistent cooling system architecture carried forward from the 502 generation.
  • The 503 (1955-1959) also holds a 10-liter cooling system capacity, aligning with the other V8-engined models across the range despite being a distinct body style.
  • All specifications listed apply under normal use conditions, meaning the capacities reflect standard operating environments rather than severe-duty or high-load scenarios.

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