Bubbling coolant??

[Neilc]

As my suggestions as to why the coolant on my e85 2.5Si is bubbling, but theres no sign of overheating and the temp gauge is in the middle as normal?
Thanks in advance

 

[Eddie Zedder]

Is it constant and occuring at all engine temperatures or at a particular point?
It may be an indication of exhaust gases getting into the cooling system through a head gasket leak.

 

[colb]

Bubbles should not be seen, suspect head gasket leaking exhaust into the system, best get a test kit and see if thre is exhaust fumes in the coolant. https://www.ebay.co.uk/p/1143674105
It may be that its in its early stages of failing so needs checking out without any delay, if the test reveals exhaust in the coolant then budget for a head gasket replacement and the head being skimmed to ensure its flat for the new gasket.

 

[Neilc]

I can’t see any bubbles, just hear it bubbling. Any links for a test kit or anyone near Middlesex already have one

 

[colb]

Ebay link for test kit on previous post, you would probably get one at a local motor factors as well.

 

[t-tony]

Do you hear the bubbling noise from behind the dash/heater area? If so check the coolant level when the system is cold as it sounds like it could have air in the system.
Not sure if the 2.5si has an electric water pump like the 3.0si does, if so it could possibly be the problem. Quite expensive it is that.

Tony.

 

[Neilc]

The bubbling just comes from the expansion tank area by the radiator, I normally notice it when I turn the car off and it bubbles for a few seconds.

 

[DamZ_3]

Yeah Well... I had a similar problem with my 1.9 Z3 Garage did a test and it was the Head Gasket... £500ish Labour - Parts from C3BMW £300 Ish but did; Head Skim, Cam Chain, Water Pump, Water Pipes, Chain Guides, Head Gasket Kit, Fuel, Oil, Air, Sparks, Etc. Plus a bunch of other stuff: More or less £800 all in... More than I hoped for, but Bertie's Engine is now good for at least another 250,000 Miles so well worth it! Damz xx

 

[Neilc]

Thanks for all the info, looks like it will be a head gasket job then, just need to find a decent indie in Middlesex area then. Not sure I fancy doing this job myself haha

 

[DamZ_3]

Would be be worth getting it 'Sniffed' at a garage or getting a DIY Sniffer kit before getting the Head Gasket Replaced just in case it is the seal on Header Tank or Radiator Cap ... Dx

 

[Neilc]

Will have a google on what that is ha, I do most things myself where I can but think I will pass on this one

 

[DamZ_3]

Sorry... It's a test for exhaust gases in the water. Most good garages will have one, but you can get a DIY kit on The Bay or A mazon which is a dye type thing that changes colour accordingly...
Bit of a Mazda Bongo thing - As Bongo's have Bonkers waterworks design & issues...
Dx

 

[Neilc]

Ah found it, thanks will check that first then.