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Car Steaming when at Rest

  • 29-03-2013 10:04pm
    #1
    podgemonster
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,228 ✭✭✭


    Got a strange one. Car (BMW 316ti Compact 2002) seems to be releasing steam when it come to rest in traffic. The water level hasn't moved and the temperature gauge didnt exceed 50% in my 300 km drive yesterday.

    Had a look and it doesn't appear to be a burst hose, steam rises for about 30 seconds then stops, looks like it coming from under the engine. Have really looked out for it when the car is moving but hasn't seen it but once i stop at the lights after 10 seconds, the white smoke seeps out from the bonnet size. Will be taking it to the mechanic in the morning if he can squeeze me in if not I will have to chance the long drive back to Dublin.


Comments

  • #2
    Alanstrainor
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 23,157 ✭✭✭✭Alanstrainor


    Any smells in the engine bay?


  • #3
    podgemonster
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,228 ✭✭✭podgemonster


    smells like a boiled kettle


  • #4
    peter barrins
    Closed Accounts Posts: 361 ✭✭peter barrins


    This post has been deleted.


  • #5
    neglectarino
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 39 ✭neglectarino


    Hi OP, I had the same issue with an e60 (steam from front of bonnet, usually noticed when stopped at lights) and it was a problem with the radiator. Replaced under warranty so no idea of cost. Best of luck


  • #6
    Henry Ford III
    Moderators, Business & Finance Moderators Posts: 17,858 Mod ✭✭✭✭Henry Ford III


    podgemonster wrote: »
    smells like a boiled kettle

    It'll almost certainly get worse.

    You have a water leak somewhere. Check the rad, hoses, expansion bottle, and also check for signs of a failing head gasket.


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  • #7
    delly
    Moderators, Home & Garden Moderators, Recreation & Hobbies Moderators Posts: 7,730 Mod ✭✭✭✭delly


    My expansion tank finally split after a short time of gradual coolant loss. When it did go, the steam that it produced was because of the heat of the coolant hitting the bottom of the engine bay. I spent ages examining where the loss was originating from, as as the initial hole was so small, any coolant coming out evaporated with the overall heat of the expansion tank.

    Just be 100% about checking the currant coolant level, it takes a good few hours to return to it's non expanded volume. If you check it too soon after driving, you will get a false reading.


  • #8
    podgemonster
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,228 ✭✭✭podgemonster


    Just to update. It was an oil leak from the Rocket Gasket cover, a small drop of oil was dropping every so often onto the exhaust pipe when the car was hot and at rest and this then evaporated and billowed out from under the bonnet.

    All fixed for €130, didnt loose much oil.

    Better get my sense of smell serviced next.

    Genuine thanks for those who replied.


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