Expert: Sean Halliday - 7/24/2008

Question
Hi

I have a BMW 520i (2000). I have noticed that when I am driving for about 1/2 hour or more the engine is very hot. The dial for the engine hardly goes over the middle so it doesn't go in the red. I have changed the fan which I was told was the problem, but this is also running at full speed the problem is that the water is very hot. I have bled the system a few times and topped up the water but this does not make a difference. Also I have had a few oil leaks and I think this might be related? The dipstick seal (three times) and the oil level sensor (once)(oil is kept topped up). I am not sure whether these are related and more importantly why the car is so hot?

Please help!!


Answer
The gauge will stay in the middle on all BMWs.This is where it should be,normal temp is from 90c to 100c.Oil leaks will not be related to the cooling system,its a seperate issue.Gaskets,seals,may be leaking.If you wish,you can change the thermostat to make sure its not sticking.