Recall 98V-178: heater core end piece can split if the engine overheats
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What causes "Recall 98V-178: heater core end piece can split if the engine overheats" on the BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999), and how is it fixed?
Overheating from a failed thermostat, water pump or belt raises coolant pressure, and the heater core end piece can crack or separate at a seam. Fix: Dealers fitted a new-design radiator cap that limits pressure.
Symptoms
None before failure. If the cooling system overheats, hot coolant can be expelled into the cabin.
Cause
Overheating from a failed thermostat, water pump or belt raises coolant pressure, and the heater core end piece can crack or separate at a seam. NHTSA's record covers about 340,000 vehicles across all the BMW models it lists. It also lists M3 for 1992-95, although the US M3 arrived for 1995.
Fix (summary)
Dealers fitted a new-design radiator cap that limits pressure. Check by VIN.
Related build entries
- E36 cooling overhaul: metal-impeller pump, tanks, thermostat and hoses
- Check E36 recalls by VIN first
Other E36 problems
- Cooling system plastics fail with age (pump impeller, tanks, thermostat housing)
- Rear shock mounts crack and can tear the body
- Rear subframe bushings wear, then mounts crack
- Power window regulators wear and jam
- Recall 97V-131: throttle or cruise cable bushing can break and hold the throttle open
- Recall 96V-110: driver airbag contact ring tab can break (1992)
More for this car
- All BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999) fitment answers · E36 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- NHTSA recall 98V-178: heater core end piece / radiator cap (1992-95 3 Series) — NHTSA (received 4 Aug 1998) (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
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