Where is the thermostat on E46?

[yogi799]

And is it hard to replace it? Thanks. (My E started to take a looong time to get to normal temperature... I'm assuming the thermostat got stuck open)

 

[yogi799]

I know this forum is full of BMW 'freaks' but is there noone who knows a bit of the tech side of our great car???? Come on guys. Is that the case???

 

[yogi799]

I think I got it... BMW owners are supposed to enjoy their rides and NOT BE 'do it yourselfers'.... Got ya! We're rich and can afford to pay, or we simply keep our rides only for the warranty period...

BTW... I found the location of the stupid thermostat. If anyone cares, I can share that with you

 

[Tom]

Sorry Yogi, I was having some internet problems otherwise I would respond. Glad you solved it.

 

[yogi799]

Thanks for your intent, bro. That counts.
Now that I found it, I have to replace the darn thing and it looks like it's kinda thought to get in there (like everything on the bimmer ) without removing the shroud and the fan blade....

 

[Akakubi]

Check the waterpump also, since you are "there" already. You may still have that shitty plastic one instead of the new metal impeller design. My pump failed at 5000miles and I had two thermostats replaced by now (the latest last week at 26K miles).

It's PITA to remove them. I did on the E30 and E36 myself, but not on the E46. I suspect it's very similar though. The fan had to come off. 24mm bolt, IICR.