1994 318IS issues

[hailbob]

Gentlemen,

I recently purchased a 1994 318IS with the following problems.

1. Error Code 1234--I noticed on the trip home that the CEL flashed twice, but didn't stay lit. The stored code is 1234.
2. Temp gauge read from normal to cool, but never hot. it just meandered between the top of the cool indication and the straight up posit. outside temp was below 60, when i got out of the mountains and the ambient temp went up to 75 the gauge read normal.
3. LOUD cricket sound from belts. sounds like an idler pulley needs some attention.

Car has 111k miles. any suggestions on maintenance? previous owner took good care of exterior/interior, but i suspect was mechanically illiterate. no service history available.

--hailbob

[parolof]

1: error 1234 :This code is generated when the engine is under load, over 2500 RPM and no discernable speedometer signal can be detected for more than 10 seconds. Check the wiring harness, and also the instrument console

see http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/Mult-Code_Reading/Mult-Code_Reading.htm

2: check your thermostat, sounds like it's stuck

3:

[Jeron]

2. I agree surely its the thermostat. Dont ignore it.

3. My E46 cricket sound was belts. Dealer replaced the tensioner under warranty and told me it was fixed. It turned out to be the belts. At least I got free belts from their misdiagnosis.

Of course in your case the tensioner is entirely possible.