Re: temp gauge reading high (archive)

You might wanna change your coolant anyway; about once every year or so is a generally accepted interval, so you're right on time. Over time the coolant becomes acidic, and slowly eats away at the metal internals (radiator, water pump, block, heater core, etc.)

-Brian

I have a 1990 325i and live in Michigan with average high
tempertures of 18 F over the last two weeks. Two nights ago
when returning My local independent BMW service shop for new
brakes, I was almost home after 15 minute highway commute and I turned my heater off and my temperture gauge almost reached the red zone after 5 minutes with the heater turned off. Now the car temp. gauge stays normal (halfway up)on a
normal 25 minute drive as long as I keep the heater blower on high. When it becomes too hot in car I turn blower motor
off and the gauge begins to slowly climb beyond the 3 quarters temp. range. I've noticed that the Auxilary fan
directly behind the kidney grill is not coming on shouldn't it ingage at this coolant temp? Here are some other particulars:
1. water pump replaced 18,000 miles ago or 17 months ago.
2. coolant last changed then as well.
3. Auxilary fan not coming on at 3 quarter temp. gauge.
4. Bled thermostat housing screw (no air bubbles noticed)
5. Coolant is at normal level in overflow reservor
6. Oil shows no sign of water/coolant on stick
7. No milky color at oil fill cap
8. went through car wash with undercarraige spray same morning with temp. outside at 10F. then car went to repair
shop sat in doors getting brakes (5 hours indoors - heated)
9. Top radiator hose gets hot and heat blows hot.

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ 3-series (E30) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.