Where is the electronic thermostat located on a BMW 523?
2 Answers
The thermostat of the BMW 5 Series is located at the lower right side of the engine, near the water pump. Function of the thermostat: The thermostat in the BMW 5 Series regulates the cooling system's heat dissipation capacity. If the engine coolant temperature does not reach the specified value, the cooling fan will not operate. If the thermostat is faulty, the fan will typically run continuously because the engine ECU will use a substitute value when it detects that the signal from the coolant temperature sensor is unreliable. Post-startup check for BMW 5 Series: Open the filler cap of the coolant reservoir to check if there is any coolant flow inside. If there is no flow, it indicates that the thermostat is damaged or that there is debris stuck between the main valve and its switch.
I found the electronic thermostat on the BMW 523 to be intelligently designed, typically located in the front section of the engine, near the water pump inlet or the upper radiator hose connection. After opening the hood, you'll see it integrated into the cooling system, positioned on a small metal component close to the water pump. This is because the electronic thermostat monitors and regulates coolant flow to ensure the engine operates at optimal temperature. The placement is chosen to enhance thermal conductivity and enable rapid response to temperature changes in the system. During actual maintenance, I've noticed slight positional variations across different model years, but generally within that same area. For inspection, it's recommended to operate when the engine is cool, first tracing the hoses to locate the connection point. Improper positioning can lead to abnormal coolant temperature fluctuations, such as slow warm-up during cold starts or overheating at high speeds. Regular cleaning of this component is crucial to prevent performance degradation due to buildup. If unsure, consult the vehicle manual or use diagnostic tools for precise location. Exercise caution when handling electrical components, as circuit-related operations may trigger fault codes.