1997 BMW 318 Logo
J
James Moorer Posted on May 25, 2014

I have a 1997 bmw 318i that is overheating. Steam comes from back of engine compartment and the fan is not engaging. What could the problem be?

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LaoWei

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  • Contributor 9 Answers
  • Posted on May 26, 2014
LaoWei
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Joined: Jul 06, 2013
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Check for leaks there. Also check thermostat. If the lower hose going to the radiator from the engine still cold when engine is heated (90c) replace it.
Check water pump, level of coolant and radiator cap.

A

Anonymous

It is likely that the heater core has sprung a leak, or the hoses leading to the heater core have failed. This would cause a loss of coolant that would make the coolant temperature sensor think it wasn't necessary to turn the fan on, and would cause steam to appear to rise out of the back of the engine. If you turn the heater on inside the passenger compartment and get steam through the vents, it's DEFINITELY a heater core breach. Otherwise, check the hoses leading to the heater core and make sure they are still connected and not leaking. Good luck!

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5 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 54 Answers
  • Posted on Feb 03, 2009

SOURCE: Where is the location of starter motor '95 BMW 318i

It will be close to the bottom of the engine block where the transmission meets the engine. Disconnect battery before touching the wires and note where wich wire went. Be sure you know the code for your passive theft protection for your radio if it has that feature because it will probably need to be reentered after reconnecting the battery.

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Anonymous

  • 1 Answer
  • Posted on Apr 14, 2009

SOURCE: BMW 318i wont start engine

check the starter

HalfmoonUSA

  • 145 Answers
  • Posted on May 15, 2009

SOURCE: where is the auxillary fan

Auxiliary Cooling Fan Circuit Fuses
Fuse 16 is 5 amps located in front power distribution box under hood, drivers side near rear of engine compartment.

Fuse 41 (ex. M44 w/man. trans) is 30 amp (probably not your car) in front power distribution box

Fuse 48 (M44 w/man. trans only) is 40 amp (The auxiliary fuse box in trunk for E36 is on the right side of trunk behind the trim panel.)

co7196

Ned C Cook

  • 3433 Answers
  • Posted on Oct 04, 2009

SOURCE: my check engine light came on in my 1997 bmw 318i

The codes are very extensive and tobe honest with you, Too much to even start to comprehend. If your check light came on, Changes are good it was triggered by an oxgen sensor. The vehicle can still be driven, It just means your emissions are incorrect. Not to worry, but have it verified which sensor and have it replaced. not too expensive. good luck, Ned

Anonymous

  • 437 Answers
  • Posted on Nov 04, 2009

SOURCE: why does my bmw 1997 318i abs light stay on all

a multitude of potential problems. Probably a bad abs unit or control box $850.00 Could be a sensor at the wheel---dirty or just quit working.

Either way.....lots of money.

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