A thermostat is a critical component of your BMW’s engine, and it plays a vital role in its overall performance. Although thermostats can become faulty, which might have disastrous consequences for the engine, this issue is not common. As a knowledgeable driver, you should understand the signs of a faulty thermostat so you can take action fast if you suspect a problem.
First, let’s look at how a thermostat controls and regulates different processes that determine your car’s performance so you can see how its failure might harm your BMW. To avoid complications, ensure you take your vehicle to an expert auto repair shop.
THE ENGINE’S THERMOSTAT
The thermostat’s role is actually straightforward, making it a very simple piece of technology. This component is a valve in the cooling system of your BMW, and it regulates the flow of coolant into and out of the radiator as well as the flow of coolant around the cooling hoses.
The thermostat regulates the temperature of your vehicle by opening and closing the passage of coolant to the cooling system. The thermostat is an important component because your BMW’s temperature must be within a certain range for it to work properly and prevent further damage, and the thermostat ensures this is achieved.
SIGNS OF A BAD THERMOSTAT
When a thermostat malfunctions, you may observe the following symptoms:
- Overheating: It should come as no surprise that if the thermostat does not correctly control the movement of coolant, your engine can get excessively hot very quickly. If left unchecked, overheating may severely harm your engine, so pay attention to the temperature indicator. Overheating can be caused by a variety of factors, and not only the thermostat. Therefore, it is wrong to conclude that the thermostat is faulty as soon as you notice overheating of your BMW. An expert mechanic is in the best position to identify the root cause, so do not delay when you observe this symptom and bring your BMW to our experienced shop.
- Erratic Temperature Changes: Abnormal changes in temperature are an indication that something is not right with the cooling system. These temperature fluctuations, from incredibly high to extraordinarily low, are caused by inappropriate coolant influxes or blockage on the engine.
- Coolant Leaks: When the thermostat gets stuck and closed, coolant might accumulate and leak around the thermostat. This might result in more leaks in coolant hoses.
- Engine Check Light: The check light should never be disregarded and should always be treated seriously whenever it lights up. The check engine light in your BMW will be activated if there is a faulty thermostat.
THE EFFECTS OF A BAD THERMOSTAT ON BMW PERFORMANCE
A faulty thermostat is not only detrimental to the cooling system, but also to the general health and performance of your vehicle. Temperatures outside of your engine’s healthy range reduces its efficiency. If left unchecked, high temperatures can shorten your engine’s lifespan or cause extensive damage to engine parts.
HOW CAN A THERMOSTAT FAIL?
There are three main approaches to considering thermostat failure. Fortunately, this doesn’t happen very frequently because the thermostat is a rather simple piece of equipment that doesn’t wear out quickly.
- Stuck Closed: Since the thermostat controls the flow of coolant in and out of the radiator, it can become stuck closed owing to problems with the pistons or wax in the valves. This type of thermostat failure is very dangerous because it would make your vehicle overheat within minutes.
- Stuck Open: On the other hand, the thermostat may become stuck open. This is not as serious as if it was closed, because coolant still runs freely through the cooling system, although in excess. Your BMW may not achieve its ideal temperature, especially if it’s chilly outside, resulting in decreased fuel economy.
- Stuck Halfway: The third type of thermostat failure is when it becomes stuck halfway, usually due to a jammed piston. This is far more frequent than being stuck closed or open. What happens here is that it would take longer for the engine to warm up, and it may also gradually overheat while driving for a long distance.
THE REPAIR SHOP FOR BMW THERMOSTAT ISSUES
Repairing a faulty thermostat is a complex task that should be undertaken only if you are sure that it is the source of the issues. This is a job best left to BMW experts. Titan Auto Tech is located in Castle Rock, and we are proud to serve communities like Castle Pines, Highland Ranch, Littleton, Lone Tree, and Parker, CO.
Our client’s satisfaction is important to us, and we want to provide you with the greatest service possible, which is why we focus on vehicle brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Mini, and Porsche. Call us now to make an appointment with one of our friendly staff members!