1999 BMW 323 Temp Hot when Engine is Cold

BENTON4321

MEMBER
1999 BMW 323

Other Category problem
1999 BMW 323 Manual 94000 miles

Drove only a few blocks from home in 30 degree weather, the engine was clearly not warmed up yet, however the temp guage was all the way over in the hot zone as far as it can go. Also I have noticed prior to this, that with the heat on max, the cabin never gets as hot as it should. 2 questions:

1) Should I replace the thermastat or the sending unit or both?

2) Can the car overheat, given this condition? Am I'm wondering if I can drive to a mechanic about 1/2 hour drive or get the car towed.

Thank you!

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

To answer your first question, yes, given the age of the vehicle, I would inspect all of the hoses, the plastic components and the T-stat. The radiators on the BMW cars these days are aluminum and plastic and have a lifespan of perhaps 7 years. Also inspect the coolant pump as they are prone to failure. I say this not just to be complete in my advice, but to be sure you are an informed consumer. The sender may be at fault for the temp gauge issue, it may perhaps also be an electrical issue in the harness or in the cluster. As to your second question, I an going to respond on the side of caution and recommend towing the vehicle because of the possible implications to the vehicle, towing is usually less expensive than repairing, if you get my drift. Please repost to me if you have questions Dr. Hagerty