HELP!!! My BMW broke down

[CT-C]

Hey Guys,

I drive a 2000 BMW 323ci (not the convertible), 2.5L (E46).
My battery light went on, I lost the power steering, my coolant gauge went to red and then I heard a loud popping noise, and the coolant level light came on.

I called my mechanic and apparently there was a build up of pressure and the coolant reservoir burst open at the side. Yes that's right burst open and now there is a huge crack down the side of it, all the coolant leaked out and my serpentine belt also blew.

My mechanic is really good and says he can fix it for me (no he isn't a BMW specialist but he is really good). Anyways I need to get a new coolant reservoir and a serpentine belt.

I need some help. I would prefer not to go to a BMW dealership to get the parts. Where would you guys recommend? (NAPA, Part Source)

Also is there anything else that I should know about this issue? How did it originate etc?

Thanks I really appreciate the help,

CT-C

[Kloubek]

Well if your mechanic is God, then I'd say that you have nothing to worry about. :)

Anyway, you can try looking at a wrecker. I'd assume any 3 series uses the same reservoir. As far as the issue itself goes, I would assume it was due to a faulty cap; they are supposed to release pressure before this happens.

[1-Bar]

The belt doesn't cost that much and neither does the resivoir:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BR33&mospid=47705&btnr=64_0890&hg=64&fg=18

[97'Scort]

I'm sorry, but if there's a buildup of pressure there are pressure release devices that should go before the tank bursts. You need more than that replaced, I'm sure.

First, I'd go to another mechanic who knows these cars a bit better. Your guy seems to be hitting the bong a little hard.

[CT-C]

Ya so far that is what we know forsure needs to be changed. I'm sure once he gets it up on the hoist tomorrow and takes a better look he MAY find something else. who knows.




Originally posted by 97'Scort
I'm sorry, but if there's a buildup of pressure there are pressure release devices that should go before the tank bursts. You need more than that replaced, I'm sure.

First, I'd go to another mechanic who knows these cars a bit better. Your guy seems to be hitting the bong a little hard.

[e36bmw///]

nm