BMW XM Running Hot: Engine & Coolant Crisis

Hey there! I had similar issues with my 2019 BMW X7 M50i last summer. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I experienced, overheating, limp mode, and coolant problems. Turned out the main culprit was a faulty DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit connection. The plug had corroded, causing intermittent communication failures between the engine control unit and cooling system. The mechanic had to clean the connectors and replace some damaged pins in the wiring harness. It wasn't a cheap fix, but definitely not as serious as I initially feared. The whole repair took about a day and a half. Been running perfectly since then, no more overheating or limp mode issues. Make sure you get it checked soon though. Running hot like that isn't good for the engine long-term. And definitely get a second opinion if you're not confident in your current mechanic's diagnosis. Hope this helps.

Thanks for sharing your experience, that's really helpful! I've got exactly the same symptoms with my XM, and it's good to know I'm not alone. Would you mind telling me roughly how much the DME repair set you back? Just trying to get an idea of what I might be looking at cost-wise. Also, curious to know if you've had any other issues pop up since getting it fixed?

Hey again! Happy to update you on my experience! I actually just got mine fixed last week, you were spot on about the control unit communication being the culprit. The repair ended up being much simpler (and cheaper!) than I initially feared. Only cost me 95€ to fix the faulty cable connection to the DME unit. The mechanic found some corrosion on the connectors and had to replace a few damaged pins, but nothing too major. Since the repair, the car's been running like a dream, no more overheating, no limp mode, and all warning lights are gone. Such a relief! And to answer your question about other issues, nope, absolutely nothing else has popped up since the fix. My X7 M50i is back to its usual self, performing exactly as it should. Just make sure you get it sorted soon, running hot isn't doing your engine any favors. Let me know how you get on with yours!

Wow, thanks everyone for your input! Just wanted to give you all an update on my BMW XM situation. Finally got it sorted at a different mechanic yesterday. Turns out you were all right about getting a second opinion, the new guy found the issue straight away. Had a failed connection in the cooling system control unit, just like some of you mentioned. I was pleasantly surprised by the whole experience. The mechanic showed me exactly what was wrong, fixed it within a few hours, and the cost was reasonable. He even cleaned up some corrosion while he was at it. The car's running perfectly now, no more overheating, no more warning lights, and definitely no more limp mode! After driving it home, I could immediately feel the difference. The engine's running smoothly again, and I'm just relieved it wasn't something more serious. Thanks again for all your advice, it really helped me push for a proper diagnosis rather than settling for that first mechanic's vague explanation. Sometimes you just need to trust your gut and look for better options!

Water is that for an error code 00A6D1 (additional water pump) thank you

(Translated from German)

The error code 00A6D1 typically refers to an issue with the additional water pump in your vehicle. This pump is often used to help circulate coolant through the engine or turbocharger system, especially when the engine is off, to prevent overheating. Start by checking the electrical connections to the additional water pump for any signs of corrosion or loose connections. If the connections are fine, the pump itself might be faulty and may need replacement. It's important to address this issue promptly to avoid potential overheating problems. Let me know how it goes or if you have any further questions!