e46 330i overheating problem - BMW Forum

whole9yards · 08-27-2011, 01:11 PM

Hi all members. As a new member I wonder if anyone can help me sort out the overheating problem with my 2000 330i.
I have replaced the water pump, thermostat, temp sensor, fan relay, and expansion tank cap. I have bled the system but after running for about 15 mins the engine starts overheating on the right (facing the car) but the pipe on the left is only warm, and the fan does not kick in. The temp gauge shows normal. On turning the ignition on initially there is a distinct click from the dash in the area of the radio. This "click" has never been there before! Is it possible that the electric fan has packed up? The car has done 283,000km, and this is the first repairs I have had to do. All advice will be appreciated.

phil c · 08-27-2011, 02:47 PM

does it overheat when its sat still or being driven, or both ? if both could be head gasket, is there warm air when the heater is on full

whole9yards · 08-28-2011, 01:34 AM

Hi Phil c, Thanks for the response to my problem. As it is Winter here (RSA) I have not noticed overheating while driving, only while still or in traffic. I have also noticed an oil leak in the area of # 6 cylinder dripping onto the exhaust, and there is no warm air from the heater. There is no oil in the water but before I did the water pump etc I had to keep topping up every 2 days with water. Your diagnosis sound right which makes my wallet concerned as I think this will be an expensive repair especially here where we pay R1,270 (about $170) for a thermostat (from the Agents)Thanks again for your answer.

Jack Dabsy · 08-28-2011, 11:22 AM

Mech fan (Viscous) has failed mate... Its clutches are not working !!

whole9yards · 08-28-2011, 10:52 PM

Hi Dabsy Thanks for the reply but I don't think the 330i has a viscous fan I think it is a fully electronic unit - am I mistaken here?

Jack Dabsy · 08-29-2011, 07:07 AM

Ahhh! I believe the fan(s) have there own temp sensor which is independent from the coolant sensor!!