1999 323i Engine Light / Valve Cover

[LJunderdog]

I recently brought my 1999 323i to the dealer when the brake pad light came on and was told I had 2 leaks, the engine valve cover and another leak in the power steering. I was also told that the arms and bushings were going, but that is a topic for a second post.

I did not get the leaks repaired right away as I had not seen any fluid underneath my car ever before. I may have driven the car 4 times since I brought it in. The engine light has just gone on. It has been quite cold in the northeast of late, and we recently had a large blizzard. I keep the car outdoors in my driveway.

This is the second time I have had an issue with the engine light. Last time I spent 200 dollars in test just to find that the gas cap was broken.

Would the engine light go on for any of these leaks? Would the cold play a factor in this situation? I am spending so much on this car in repairs of late that I would love to get some advice on whats wrong with it and if it could wait until the 50,000 maintenance check. I'd also like to have some assurance that althought its not definetly the issue, it is certainly a good chance that this is it.

Thx
LJ

[LJunderdog]

anyone??? anyone??? ... bueller??? frye??? ....

[323imankiks]

ok my opinion how can a brake pad light turn into leaks? brake pad light means your pads are worn out thats an easy fix if you have ever worked on brakes before. As for your valve cover gasket this is common on all cars at some point they will leak its a little more challaging to repair this I have never replaced one if its leaking severly have it worked on but it can be postponed. power steering should be taken care of if its leaking alot. As for check engine light this problems stated above have nothing to do with the light coming on. most of the time check engine light has to do with emissions ie faulty oxygen sensors, bad coils etc. or one of many sensers that are on these cars. Take it to an autozone part store they will scan your car for codes for free and then go from there. check all your fluids at least once a month and top of as needed.

[LJunderdog]

thanks for responding. Any particular fluid to get for power steering? Does BMW recommend a specific kind?

Also, I've read posts on here referring to "stop gap"? What is this and how do I go about getting some?

Thanks
LJ

[LJunderdog]

Engine light keeps coming on. Going to get the valve cover fixed this week/next week.

Dealership told me it might be the thermostat that causes the light.

Any ideas?

[Antiburn]

It should say on your power steering cap what kind your car takes. I believe its CHF 11 or 13. It could possibly be ATF.

Valve cover will never casue the check engine light to come on. Thermostat I dont belive will make it but you know BMW they like to put sensors on everything. And the brake light means you need new brake pads, sensor and possibly rotors.

[Skycity_BMW]

try this site . . .they should help you a bit more since it's an e46 forum . .

http://www.e46fanatics.com/