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K4R0K1NG
05-20-2022, 08:11 PM
So I recently bought an e36 323is. It has a slow coolant leak and I noticed today when I got back from work that the level was low from the check control light. I looked under the car and sure enough there was a small pool under the car about 4-6 inches back from the radiator.

The previous owner had issues with the water pump, so I think it might be that.

Any suggestions or ways to properly diagnose this without going to a mechanic? Any good ones in the city are booked full for the next couple weeks, and I would rather not wait that long.
zellamay
05-20-2022, 08:48 PM
That's where a water pump leak would show. I have used paper towels to find an exact location for a leak. Just stuff them everywhere in that area, run the car, look at them.
Eric93se
05-20-2022, 09:49 PM
Welcome to the forum new guy!

Know this: You must take coolant leaks seriously on an e36. If it overheats or already has over heated from the previous owner the cylinder head can crack and warp which will then cause coolant lose.

Moral of the story, never drive your e36 with a coolant leak, never try to limp it home, get a tow.

Hopefully you find the leak!
K4R0K1NG
05-24-2022, 09:20 PM
Welcome to the forum new guy!

Know this: You must take coolant leaks seriously on an e36. If it overheats or already has over heated from the previous owner the cylinder head can crack and warp which will then cause coolant lose.

Moral of the story, never drive your e36 with a coolant leak, never try to limp it home, get a tow.

Hopefully you find the leak!
Thanks man, I appreciate it. I ordered the water pump and will install it as soon as it comes in. I topped it up and drove it a couple times while keeping an eye on the temp gauge, which never went above half.

Clearly this is an awful idea so I'll park it for now
Eric93se
05-24-2022, 10:42 PM
Your sure its the wp and not the thermostat housing?
K4R0K1NG
05-25-2022, 10:22 PM
the previous owner provided a report saying the water pump will need to be replaced soon by a licensed european mechanic in the city. That combined with the symptoms and what other people have said definitely point to the water pump, but im not 100% sure.
Eric93se
05-25-2022, 11:36 PM
Huh!? Yeah I'm pretty sure that's not how things work in this crazy world lol.