1986 325es heater is not working like it should. It blows out warm air but it doesn't get the cabin nearly as hot as it used to. I've replaced the thermostat twice within 6 months time and that did not correct the problem. I haven't noticed any leaks from the heater core. Any ideas would could be the problem? Thanks
1986 325es
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I don't know that much about E30s, mostly E36s, so you might want to take this with a grain of salt. When the heater is on, how hot is the heater core? If it's the same temp as the coolant, you might want to check for airflow through the core - maybe the blower isn't working, or the air recirc isn't shutting, etc.
If it's not close to the same temp as the coolant, then you should probably look at things like the heater valves, and look for restrictions in the coolant flow. Maybe the core is plugged, or one of the hoses is kinked or plugged.
Hope this helps,
Jim
If your car had the cooling system recall done, there is an additional thermostat installed near the firewall going to the heater core. They call it a bypass valve, but it is really just a thermostat that opens to route coolant around (away from) the heater when it gets too hot. You might try replacing that. I just did mine when performing other maintenance and note that my heater is much warmer now. Part number is 64 11 8 391 926 and retails for $15.25 at the dealer. If your's gives a BMWCCA discount you are looking at about $12.96.
Do you have a microfilter in yours? On mine there was warm air but it barely came out of the vents. I thought my heater/fan was going out but I replaced the filter and now have major air flow and heat.
BMW Cigar & Gun Club Member # 11
Could be as simple as low coolant. Maybe there are some air trapped in the colling system? This was what happened to me recently. The heater started blowing hot air as soon as I finished burping the cooling system.
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Had the same problem. Bled the coolant system and topped it off. End of story. Hope your's is as simple.'
TWP
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