Scan tool
 

Hi there, new to this stuff, I have an overheating problem on my 06 330i and I've read that there is a "more advanced bmw scan tool". Will this tool show codes from the water pump and or the thermostat if there was a problem? Also, what is this tool and how do I get one. At this point I don't know to change the pump, tsat, or radiator.

A scan tool will almost certainly be of no help to you. There are no sensors on the water pump or thermostat that talk to the engine control computer.

On an '06, you are approaching the age when it is time to make a major investment in new cooling system components, so if it were me, I would not even bother to try and diagnose your particular problem, I would just do a complete cooling system rebuild. If you are not comfortable replacing a water pump, however, this is going to be an expensive undertaking. On the other hand, paying someone to do it all at once is a lot more cost effective than paying someone to do it piecemeal as the components fail one at a time over the next few years.

Thanks for your advice manolito.