Affected Models of BMW 4 Series: First generation (F32/F33/F36 – 2013 to 2020) / Second generation (G22/G23/G26 – 2020 – present).
The BMW 428i has a 2.0 liter inline four cylinder engine and is a classy car. Much of what I said above carries true, with it also having an issue of overheating engine. BMW 428i owners, you’re familiar with the engine overheating light, which is followed by concern and likely breaking down. Don’t worry though, this article will aim to help you understand how you can diagnose engine overheating problems, how you can go about it, and how to solve this problem.
Now, we’ll go over the more commonly known reasons for engine overheating. This is pretty much a couple of causes why you would see the engine in your BMW 4 Series 428i overheating.
Knowing these causes lets you figure out the cause and solve it within the minimum time possible; your 428i will thank you.
Table of Contents
Causes
Low Coolant Level
Coolant is the primary purpose to control the engine temperatures, and if the coolant level is low then the main purpose is not achieved. Some leakage may cause loose or low coolants, or it may not have been refilled for some time.
Faulty Thermostat
The coolant enters and exits the engine by the action of the thermostat. The problem is also common with a thermostat, as it may not open or close properly and that can cause poor cooling.
Radiator Problems
Your car has this thing called a radiator, and this works by eradicating heat from the engine. Faulty radiators or those that have become blocked will slow down the heat dispersal process leading to overheating.
Coolant Leak
The BMW 428i’s coolant gauge should not constantly read low, and if it does, then the car could be losing coolant. This leak may be from the water pump, in the hoses, the radiator, or any other part of the cooling system.
Broken Water Pump
The water moves the coolant through the entire engine through the help of the water pump. A faulty or deteriorated pump will affect the flowing of water in the cooling system resulting to overheating of the engine.
Malfunctioning Cooling Fan
One of the parts is the cooling fan that assists in eliminating heat by blowing air on the radiator. The problem with this fan could be that it will not work as it is supposed to and this usually causes it to overheat.
We already presented the most frequent reasons for engine overheating in your BMW 428i, so let’s move on to the solutions.
How To Fix
Monitor and Restock Coolant
It is recommended that the cooling level be checks with the help of the reserve tank or by following the dipstick. If the level is low, add more of the coolant that is used in your type of car or truck. Another thing worth checking is leaks whenever you’re refilling the same.
Replace a Faulty Thermostat
An improper functioning of a thermostat means that it either cannot open or close as it should when it comes to the flow of the coolant. To replace the thermostat, follow these steps:
a. In case you’re working on your BMW 428i, be sure to drain your car’s coolant.
b. Now remove the first of the two batteries’ cables from the car by pulling the black one known as the negative cable.
c. Find the position of the thermostat housing and then take it off.
d. Replace a faulty thermostat as well as the housing gasket.
e. Reinstall the thermostat housing.
f. Top up the coolant and switch on your engine to look out for any signs of leakage.
Clean or Replace the Radiator
If the radiator gets blocked completely, the coolant circulation will be affected and the vehicle will start heating up. You can prepare another solution using water and radiator cleaner and used it to flush the system for cleaning the radiator. If the problem is still not solved, then the best step is to replace the radiator.
Identify and Fix Coolant Leaks
A leak from faulty hoses, the water pump, or the radiator may cause leakage of the cooling system. The first thing is to find which part is broken and where the leakage occurs and remove the broken part.
Fix or Change the Water Pump
Clogged pump impellers will prevent the coolant from circulating as required in the vehicle. The water pump needs to be pulled out and put back in its place after a new one has been acquired according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Check and Repair the Cooling Fan
An improperly working cooling fan will not help blow air to cool off the radiator. Examine the cooling fan and if it is damaged then fix it or buy a new one depending on the extent of the damage.
Conclusion
Most car owners are well aware of what a nightmare… it can be when an overheating light starts flashing on the dashboard of your car. I know it is not a good feeling when the overheating light is turned on, but this is not the end of the world, be assured! But by knowing the main sources of the problem and how to solve them, you will avoid spending money on repairs. Make sure that when you are solving problems within your car you let your service manual be your guide and seek the help of a professional car mechanic where the problem is too hard to fix. Drive safely!
