Thermostat replacement - BMW part only?

[matmanx1]

Looks like I might need a new thermostat. I had a "service engine soon" light come on this past week and the error code indicates that the thermostat is the likely culprit.

In this instance would it be ok to use a less expensive part from another manufacturer or should I stick to only using the BMW factory part? I just spent $800 last month on the car and would like to keep my expenditure to a minimum if possible but if the non factory parts are cheap junk then I will pray the premium.

Any opinions on this?

[BrokenVert]

For stuff like a TStat its OEM or bust for me.

You wont like this next part, but if youre tearing apart the bottom of the car to get to the TStat than you should also change the waterpump. The two are right next to eachother and have a habit of failing simultaneously

[89alpinem3]

Yes, the Tstat went on my wifes 08' X3.. Same N52... Do the water pump at the same time as there bolted together and pretty much use OEM

[Dackelone]

Originally Posted by 89alpinem3

Yes, the Tstat went on my wifes 08' X3.. Same N52... Do the water pump at the same time as there bolted together and pretty much use OEM

AND make sure to buy new bolts for the water pump and t-stat. Be sure to bleed the cooling system too.

[Alow]

The tstat failed on my 128i and I just replaced it. I didn't touch the water pump. It's very doable and given my low mileage I am hoping the water pump lasts me a bit longer before I have to replace it.

[Alow]

Delete - Double post

[matmanx1]

Thanks, folks. Went with the OEM unit + a cooling flush. It's all good now.

[jcoop269]

Originally Posted by Alow

The tstat failed on my 128i and I just replaced it. I didn't touch the water pump. It's very doable and given my low mileage I am hoping the water pump lasts me a bit longer before I have to replace it.

I am the second owner of my 2010 128, bought it with 60,000 miles and have put 60,000 on it in under 3 years and still running the original water pump and t-stat so I wouldn't worry too much...if you have low mileage, doing both if one or the other fails may not be necessary.

[Alow]

Originally Posted by jcoop269

I am the second owner of my 2010 128, bought it with 60,000 miles and have put 60,000 on it in under 3 years and still running the original water pump and t-stat so I wouldn't worry too much...if you have low mileage, doing both if one or the other fails may not be necessary.

Glad to hear it!