my 318i 1996 is overheating

[huyatgr]

I got a problem...when I run my car, the temperature pointer climbs to half and after 2-3miles its starts to climb until the red light goes on....please help me with a checklist on the cooling system. someone was telling me I need to bleed the cooling system...that it might be airlock....I ve done that but stil......another told me to remove the thermostat and let the fan run non stop....etc. what is your opinion. I need to get my car back on the road....

[Jack Dabsy]

What is the state of the coolant at this time? Are the fans kicking in?
Are there any leaks? Is the tail-pipe steaming a little?
My tip is start from the front and work rearwards thru the car to eliminate things... Starting with the RAD !!

[bavarian]

Hi firstly do what Dabsy recommended and if you dont find anything its probably the water pump,the blades inside the pump are plastic and tend to break up which causes the water circulation to stop.But first do change the thermostat which is cheaper then run the car,when it gets to normal operating tempature put your heaters on and check whether you have hot air if not then that means your water circulation is not running thru your heater matrix which means you will have cold air.Its vital you bleed the system first after you change thermostat or pump.

[rampage601]

you also need to check your fan motor it my be old and due for retirement..the fan might still spin but its working way too hard...a compression check wouldnt hurt either..

[Jack Dabsy]

Some good advice there Mate... If you are still struggling, drop a bottle of K-Seal in her rad !! Worked for me LOL