1997-2000 BMW 5 Series Radiator Core Support
Specifications
Donor year
1998
Body style
Sedan
Fuel
Gas
Engine size
2.8 L
Engine code
M52
Engine type
2.8L I6
Drivetrain
RWD
About this part
Also known as
Radiator Core Support
Rad Support
Core Support
Front Panel
Lock Carrier
Front Bulkhead
Front Carrier Assembly
What this part does
The radiator core support serves as the primary structural tie between the front frame rails and fender aprons. It provides the rigid mounting foundation for the vehicle's cooling system, including the radiator, condenser, and auxiliary fans. Additionally, this assembly dictates the alignment of the front fascia, headlights, and hood latch mechanisms. When a vehicle sustains a front-end impact, this panel absorbs energy and often bends, which immediately throws off panel gaps and can place lateral stress on the plastic tanks of the radiator.
Fits these vehicles
| Make | Model | Years | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW | 528i | 1997-2000 | 2.8L I6 |
| BMW | 540i | 1997-2003 | 4.4L V8 |
| BMW | 525i | 2001-2003 | 2.5L I6 |
| BMW | 530i | 2001-2003 | 3.0L I6 |
Before you order
The attached cooling fan on the vehicle it came from is defective and is not considered part of this usable sale; you will need to swap the auxiliary fan and shroud from your existing vehicle or source a replacement. Verify that your current hood latch cables, horns, and headlight mounting brackets are intact, as these bolt directly to the core support and will need to be transferred over. Inspect the lower mounting bushings on your radiator before installation, as worn rubber mounts will allow the radiator to vibrate against the new metal frame.