A close-up shot of a Mishimoto radiator installed in a red BMW E36.

Upgrading Your BMW E36 - Essential Cooling and Performance Parts

When the BMW E36 launched in 1990, it quickly earned a reputation for its balance of performance, handling, and everyday usability. Its lightweight chassis and smooth inline-six engines made it a standout in the compact executive car segment. Over the course of its production, BMW expanded the lineup to include sedans, coupés, convertibles, wagons, and hatchbacks, all built on the same driver-focused platform.

More than two decades later, the E36 continues to maintain a strong following in the automotive world. Its combination of sharp handling, solid construction, and a simple, modifiable engine bay makes it a platform that appeals to enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. Owners value the E36 not just for its performance potential but also for its reliability, ease of maintenance, and the satisfaction of working on a car that rewards both care and upgrades.

Because of these qualities, the E36 has become more than just a classic 3 Series. It is a platform that supports both restoration and performance builds, offering a balance of practicality and excitement that few other cars in its class can match. With that in mind, we have developed a range of products designed to improve reliability, efficiency, and performance while preserving what makes this platform so enduring.

Performance Aluminum Radiator

An E36 radiator.

A reliable radiator is the foundation of any cooling system upgrade. Our Performance Aluminum Radiator is a direct fit for all six-cylinder E36 models from 1992 to 1999. It features full aluminum construction with TIG-welded end tanks and a two-row, 1.57-inch thick core for efficient heat dissipation. A magnetic drain plug captures metallic debris, protecting your engine and extending the life of your cooling system. This radiator works with both stock and modified vehicles, making it ideal for daily drivers and track enthusiasts alike.

X-Line Performance Aluminum Radiator

A radiator for the BMW E36.

For those looking to push cooling performance further, the X-Line Performance Aluminum Radiator offers a 73-percent thicker core and reduces coolant temperatures by 30°F. With a 91-percent increase in coolant capacity and 20-percent higher efficiency compared to stock, this radiator supports both high-performance and high-mileage applications. It includes all factory ports for sensors and overflow, and mounting points for the Euro oil cooler, making it a strong choice for modified or track-oriented builds.

Performance Fan Shroud Kit

A performance fan shroud made for the BMW E36.

Many E36 cooling issues stem from the stock mechanical fan. Our Performance Fan Shroud Kit replaces the mechanical fan with a high-flow 16-inch electric fan producing over 1,850 CFM of airflow. An optional adjustable fan controller allows full control of coolant temperatures at idle or low speeds. The kit mounts to both stock and aluminum radiators and accommodates the stock expansion tank. Finished in Stealth Black, it improves cooling performance while keeping a clean, subtle appearance in the engine bay.

Aluminum Coolant Expansion Tank

An aluminum coolant expansion tank made for the BMW E36.

Stock expansion tanks are prone to cracking after years of thermal cycling. This is even more applicable with the E36, given that the newest E36 on the road is still over two decades old. Our Aluminum Coolant Expansion Tank eliminates this problem with fully welded aluminum construction. A CNC-machined dipstick doubles as a bleeder, ensuring proper coolant levels. Available in polished or anodized black finishes, this tank installs in under an hour and integrates with both stock setups and our Performance Fan Shroud Kit.

Racing Thermostat

A racing thermostat made for the BMW E36.

The Racing Thermostat activates at a lower temperature than the factory unit, allowing coolant to circulate sooner and reducing the risk of overheating in demanding conditions. This is particularly beneficial for hot climates or track use and complements our radiators and fan systems for improved overall cooling efficiency.

Silicone Radiator Hose Kit

Silicone coolant hoses made for the BMW E36.

Hoses are often overlooked until failure occurs. Our Silicone Radiator Hose Kit combines high-grade silicone with heat-resistant fibers for improved pressure tolerance and heat resistance. Direct-fit replacement ensures easy installation and a perfect OEM fit. Available in black, blue, or red, these hoses also add subtle engine bay styling while reducing the risk of leaks under extreme conditions.

Essentials Bundle

An essentials bundle for the BMW E36.

For owners looking for a complete cooling system upgrade, our Essentials Bundle combines the aluminum radiator, silicone hoses, performance fan shroud, racing thermostat, and aluminum coolant expansion tank in one package. It addresses the most common E36 cooling system failure points, restoring reliability and performance while reducing installation time. This bundle is ideal for daily drivers, project cars, and track-focused builds alike.

Silicone Intake Boots

Silicone intake boots made for the BMW E36.

For the intake system, our Silicone Intake Boots improve durability and airflow compared to stock rubber hoses. They maintain OEM fitment while increasing pressure tolerance, and select models allow deletion of the ASC system to maximize intake flow. Available in black, blue, or red, these boots provide both functional and aesthetic improvements.

Water Pump

A water pump made for the BMW E36.

A reliable water pump is critical for engine longevity. Our direct-fit Water Pump for M50, M52, M54, S50, and S52 engines features a cast-aluminum body and metal impeller for durability. It includes a new O-ring for a leak-free installation and restores optimal coolant circulation to protect your engine under all driving conditions.

Racing Tow Hook

A racing tow hook made for the BMW E36.

For track enthusiasts or recovery situations, the Racing Tow Hook provides strength and style. Constructed from high-strength 7075 aluminum and 304 stainless steel, the fold-down ring has an 8,000-pound straight-pull rating. It meets or exceeds requirements for SCCA, NASA, and BMW CCA events and includes arrow stickers to mark the tow location. Available in Black, Blue, Red, Gold, or Polished finishes, it is a functional addition to any E36.

Oil Line Fitting Kit

An oil line fitting kit made for the BMW E36.

Our Oil Line Fitting Kit allows use of -10AN fittings for custom oil routing, creating additional engine bay space for oil coolers, accumulators, or supercharger setups. CNC-machined aluminum and stainless steel components ensure precision and durability, and included BMW O-rings provide a leak-free installation. This kit pairs perfectly with stainless steel lines and stacked-plate oil coolers for a complete custom cooling solution.

The BMW E36 remains a platform that blends practicality, reliability, and performance. Our products are designed to improve cooling, enhance reliability, and support a variety of performance builds. Every component is engineered for durability and precise fitment, and our Lifetime Warranty ensures your E36 stays ready for the road or track for years to come. Explore our full E36 product lineup to see how you can upgrade your vehicle today.
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