Original BMW Coolant Return Pipe for BMW 545i, 550i, 645Ci, 650i, 7 Series, Alpina B7, and X5 (2002–2010)

Linking the water pump inlet to the valley pan, this Original BMW coolant return pipe is a connector on the V8 and V12 engines in the BMW 545i, 550i, 645Ci, 650i, 745i, 750i, 760i, Alpina B7, and X5 from 2002–2010. BMW calls it the return pipe. It joins the water pump to the coolant valley pan, part 11-14-7-507-278, which sits in the vee of the engine. It is a common point for coolant leaks on these engines. Typical signs of a failing pipe are cracking, leaking, swelling, and general deterioration. The pipe weighs 46 g and is made in Germany.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

BMW has produced this pipe since July 2001. It superseded 11-51-0-150-981 and is rated exchangeable retrospectively, so it replaces the older pipe on any car in the fitment. It is used on the N62 and N62N V8 and on the N73 V12, which is why it spans the E60 and E61 5 Series, the E63 and E64 6 Series, the E65 and E66 7 Series, and the E53 and E70 X5.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 11-51-1-439-976
• BMW part name: return pipe
• Replaces: 11-51-0-150-981 (exchangeable retrospectively)
• Connects: water pump inlet to valley pan 11-14-7-507-278
• Weight: 46 g (0.1 lb)
• Production start: July 2001
• Country of manufacture: Germany
• Sold individually as one pipe
• Warranty: 24-month parts warranty on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

What does this pipe connect to?
It runs from the inlet of the water pump to the coolant valley pan, part 11-14-7-507-278.

Will it replace 11-51-0-150-981?
Yes. BMW superseded that number with this pipe and rates the change as exchangeable retrospectively.

Fitment & Compatibility

Use the fitment table below to confirm the exact year, make, model, submodel, and any application notes before ordering. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.