How do I know if my BMW thermostat is bad?
- High temperature readings. The main symptoms of a failing thermostat are related to engine overheating.
- Erratic changes in temperature.
- Leaking coolant.
- Increased fuel consumption.
- Unusual noises.
How much does it cost to replace a BMW thermostat?
The Best in Auto Repair The average cost for a BMW 328i thermostat replacement is between $458 and $523. Labor costs are estimated between $178 and $225 while parts are priced between $280 and $298.
How long does it take to change BMW thermostat?
It will take a mechanic between 1 to 2 hours to complete a thermostat replacement service. Depending on the shop you go to, labor can cost between $65 and $100 per hour, so call ahead to get a repair estimate.
Will a bad thermostat throw a code?
the most noticeable issues occur when the thermostat gets stuck in either the open or closed position. a malfunction can result in a trouble code, generated by the engine’s computer, which can turn on your check engine light.
What is the symptoms of a bad failing thermostat?
Overheating is the most common symptom of a failing thermostat. Due to corrosion or aging, your car’s thermostat can get stuck in a closed position. If this happens, the thermostat will not let the coolant reach the radiator, and, as mentioned above, the engine will overheat, causing severe damage.
Can you replace a car thermostat yourself?
Replacing a Car Thermostat: Step-by-Step Instructions. Replacing a car’s thermostat (or T-stat) is an easy and inexpensive repair. In most cases it will cure an overheating or no-heat problem, sparing the time and expense needed for expert diagnostics.
How long does it take to replace a thermostat?
Installation typically takes about 1 hour. Once the new thermostat has been installed, your technician will help you program it if you’d like.
How long does it take to replace a car thermostat?
How long does a car thermostat replacement take? An average thermostat replacement takes around 1 hour, with some taking as little as 30 minutes. More problematic replacements can take a little longer where there are issues accessing an awkwardly positioned part or if it’s become seriously stuck in place.
How can I test my thermostat without removing it?
Start your car’s engine and allow it to idle. Look through the radiator filler neck to see if the coolant flows. At this time, it should not be flowing as your car has not reached the operating temperature to cause the thermostat to open. If you find the coolant is flowing, it means the thermostat valve is open.
Can a faulty thermostat cause coolant loss?
Symptoms of a Leaking or Failed Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing. If your vehicle overheats, a failed or bad thermostat could be the culprit. However, a thermostat housing that has sustained damage is more likely going to give way for a coolant leak. This comes from either a failed seal in the engine or warped housing …
Why is my car overheating but it has coolant in it?
However, if your car is overheating, but the coolant is full, it is probably not a leak. Instead, it may be that it’s having trouble circulating correctly. This can stem from several things, including a faulty water pump, a radiator blockage, a stuck thermostat, or a plugged heater core.
How do I know if my BMW is overheating?
One of the easiest ways to identify an overheating engine is to touch the hood. If it is too hot to touch after 10 seconds, the engine is likely overheating. Another clear indicator of BMW engine overheating is steam escaping from under the hood.
What does the BMW thermostat do?
A BMW thermostat controls the flow of coolant from your BMW engine through the radiator. During warmup coolant flows, but not into the radiator until proper operating temperature has been reached.
Do BMW have thermostats?
The thermostat in your BMW plays a critical role in its performance. Although not very common, its failure can wreak havoc on its engine. To prevent any problems, a savvy driver needs to understand what a bad thermostat will do to their vehicle.
Is it OK to drive a car with a bad thermostat?
Can I Still Drive with a Bad Thermostat? The easy answer to this question is no. While your car may be physically able to move and get you from Point A to Point B, you will want to refrain from operating your vehicle. This can lead to more parts of your vehicle being damaged, especially if the engine is overheating.
Can I still drive my car with a P0128 code?
Is it safe to drive with the P0128 code? The code will illuminate the check engine light, but you can still drive your car. It will not cause any hindrance or sudden shutting down of the vehicle. The only problem you’ll notice is the temperature gauge not reaching the optimal levels.
How do I know if my thermostat is stuck open or closed?
The temperature for the radiator hose should be lower than the temperature of the engine. If they are the same, then the thermostat is stuck in the open position. Take the temperature of the lower radiator hose as well. If there’s an imbalance between them, it’s probably a sign that your car’s thermostat is closed.
How do you know if you need a new thermostat?
- Heating or cooling system will not turn off or on.
- The temperature reading is incorrect.
- Recent spike in your energy bill.
- Frequent temperature fluctuations.
- Thermostat is 10 years old or older.
Can a bad thermostat cause a blown head gasket?
A faulty thermostat will cause the coolant to overheat and blow a car’s head gasket. Several things can go wrong regarding the heating and cooling system, so you should try to keep up-to-date with its maintenance. If it’s necessary, replace the gasket with a new one or have an auto repair specialist help.
How do you tell if you have a bad thermostat or water pump?
- Engine Overheating.
- Temperature gauge fluctuations.
- Coolant leaks from the front of your car.
- Steam coming from the front of your car.
- Nosey or loosened water pump pulley.
- Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing.
Do I have to drain coolant when replacing thermostat?
With a normal top-mounted thermostat you need drain only part of the cooling system . Do not drain it while the engine is hot — you may be scalded. Wait for the engine to cool. Drain the coolant from the radiator tap, or from the bottom hose, until it is below the level of the thermostat housing.
Do you need to add coolant when replacing thermostat?
After replacing a thermostat, the technician should ensure all air pockets are removed from the cooling system. Otherwise, the vehicle will be more likely to overheat. After replacing the thermostat, refill antifreeze.
How do I know if my thermostat is sticking?
Checking For the Signs of a Bad Thermostat Look to see if the coolant is swirling/flowing immediately — that means the thermostat’s stuck open. If the coolant doesn’t flow after 10 minutes or so and continues to be stagnant after the temperature gauge indicates it’s hot, the thermostat’s likely stuck closed.
Do you need to turn off power to change thermostat?
Turn Off Power to the HVAC System The first step in how to install a thermostat is making sure the power is turned off to your existing thermostat. Turn off the power for your heating and air conditioning system at the main service panel. Its circuit breaker should be clearly labeled.