Why does my BMW 2 Series overheat during Lahore/Islamabad traffic even after regular maintenance?

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Why does my BMW 2 Series overheat during Lahore/Islamabad traffic even after regular maintenance?

I drive a BMW 218i in Lahore, and the engine temperature often rises when I’m stuck in traffic o r driving slowly. The coolant level is fine, and I’ve done timely oil changes. Could this be due to the hot climate, a failing cooling fan, o r some issue with the thermostat o r radiator? What are the most common causes of overheating for BMW 2 Series in Pakistani conditions?

Talha Kyanii asked on 29 Nov 2025 11:59:12 am

1 Answer

7 views |

Gari Master - on 29 Nov 2025 12:01:20 pm

Overheating in slow traffic is a common problem for BMW 2 Series models in Pakistan, especially in cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi where temperatures can get very high. Even with regular maintenance, a few issues can still cause overheating:

Most common causes

Weak o r failing radiator fan
In traffic, your car depends heavily on the electric cooling fan since airflow is low. If the fan is weak o r the module is faulty, overheating occurs quickly.

Clogged radiator dust, debris, water deposits
Pakistani roads have dust and hard water that can clog radiator fins internally and externally, reducing cooling efficiency.

Thermostat not opening fully
A partially stuck thermostat restricts coolant flow, causing heat buildup in low-speed driving.

Heat + Turbo engines
The 218i/220i turbo engines run hotter by design. Combined with Pakistan’s climate, cooling issues become more noticeable.

What to check

Radiator fan speed low and high stages

Radiator cleaning external pressure wash + internal flush

Thermostat function test

Coolant type use BMW-approved HOAT coolant, not tap water