Thermostat - where to buy?

[xlash]

I've noticed that the temperature gauge is never exactly vertical even after 2 hours of driving. It's always immediately above the blue section so research indicates that I replace the thermostat.

What's the best place to buy a thermostat? I want to avoid the stealership.

[T.Dot_E30]

Got one from autopartsway.ca along with BMW coolant, it came the day after I ordered.

Www.bmwspecialists.ca is actually cheapter but shipping is extra and they do not carry BMW coolant.

Changed mine in the garage new years eve n drove to niagara the same night.

[xlash]

Got one from autopartsway.ca along with BMW coolant, it came the day after I ordered.

Www.bmwspecialists.ca is actually cheapter but shipping is extra and they do not carry BMW coolant.

Changed mine in the garage new years eve n drove to niagara the same night.

Alright, I'll order it from autopartsway then. Which (if you did) DIY did you follow? I found one on e46f and it wasn't particularly helpful. Maybe once I open the hood, remove the black plastic piece on top of the radiator it'll help...

[mclovin]

With ur 5 spd, u'll have an electrical fan which will be a piece of cake to remove and get to the thermostat. Good luck.

[T.Dot_E30]

Which (if you did) DIY did you follow?..

I just did it on an e36.

Edit: Found an e46 DIY for you.
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1052604&highlight=thermostat