740IL thermostat problem

[jlejr]

I have a 2000 740IL with 40,000 miles which we just purchased. We have driven it about 1,000 miles on two long trips and suddenly last night it over heated after going about 5 miles. The coolant was extremely low so I filled it back up. Now the thermostat gauge goes right to red when I start the car. Any idea what is wrong?

[libertylover]

How much time elapsed between adding coolant and restarting the engine?

[redhed]

I would check for a coolant leak somewhere if I were you.

[jlejr]

After I posted I did find a leak, but even after 12 hours and with new coolant the thermostat still pegs over red. BMW now has the car because it has a crack down one side of the radiator and they should fix the gauge also. Thanks!!

[crash8168]

the gauge goes to red until the faults are cleared. then it will return to normal operation.