Unofficialbmw.com

[stevepl17]

I am having an issue concerning heat inside the car--the temp gauge will only climb out of the blue when I am idling. I am not overheating, but the temp drops back into the blue when I am moving. Winter is upon us, so obviously this isn't ideal.
After reading the forums, it seems like the cooling system is problematic, but it also doesn't seem a like a huge issue to replace the thermostat--but is that indeed what I need to replace? Is there something else I need to do here?
BTw, it's a 2000 with 56k miles.

[edjack]

By all means, replace the t'stat, before your engine is all sludged up.

When did you last replace the coolant? If over two years ago, drain and replace with BMW stuff and distilled water.

You didn't say which engine you have. The V8 block drain plugs are easy to access; not so with the six.

Be sure you have the proper bleeding procedure for your engine, especially the six, which is very difficult to get the air out.
_________________


Ed BMW CCA member since 1987 (Nr. 62319).
'97 540i 6 speed Aspensilber over Aubergine interior.

[stevepl17]

Sorry--I have the 6. I will replace the thermostat, just wanted to make sure it was that and not something else before I did. I usually start with the small stuff first.
Thanks