Temperature gauge

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 8:15 am

Mine went through the roof into the red within 2 miles of leaving home this morning, I finished the journey of 2.5 miles, had a look under the bonnet and everything looks fine.... explanations welcome

1987 320i

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 8:29 am

What was the water level like and was the water clean?
Any white smoke out the back?

Could be dodgy/blocked radiator or water pump or head gasket but if it was the head gasket the car would probably be running badly and lots of white smoke.

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 8:38 am

If there's no water loss and everything runs fine, it's probably electrical, a dodgy earth or a bad connection on the gauge. Mine wobbles about all over the place 'til I give the dash a thwack, then it's fine...

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 8:55 am

I'm having an over heating problem but if you had the same you would probably be able to hear the water boiling in the tank.

Drove her into work very gingerly today for the 1st time since buying her.

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 8:56 am

The water is very slightly low in the expansion tank and it's clean, engine running fine

Post Wed Mar 23, 2005 1:58 pm

kidsinister wrote: Mine wobbles about all over the place 'til I give the dash a thwack, then it's fine...

I reckon that might be it, I've been out in it this lunchtime, and no problems... it's running at just under the middle now

I've seen it bouncing about, but didn't realise quite how settled it becomes when you give it a tap with your knuckle... seeing it in the red is too worrying for words... thanks for the responses