Functional description

The engine control system continuously calculates the required cooling. The engine control system only opens the radiator shutter when a higher level of cooling air is actually required.

While the vehicle is being driven, the closed radiator shutter reduces the warm-up phase of the engine, as operating temperature is reached more quickly if the environment is better encapsulated. The air flow through the radiator creates high aerodynamic drag as the driving speed increases. In higher road speed ranges, the closed radiator shutter improves the aerodynamics. This reduces fuel consumption and thus the emission level during driving with the combustion engine.

Fig 1: Identifying Air Flaps, Radiator Blind Drive And Plug Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.