Wonky thermostat. What's the damage, chief?

[DBRacingGod]

Wotcha. I'm on my third BMW - this time a 51-plate 330 Sport Touring with about 60k on the clock.

I've had it about a fortnight and I've just noticed that the temp gauge struggles to get to the midpoint on the motorway, falling back towards the 25% mark.

So far I haven't noticed the hot air dropping off, largely because of the fine weather, but a) what damage could it be doing to the car, presuming it is the thermostat and b) if it ain't the thermostat, what else could it be?

And sort of c) am I right in thinking an indy specialist will sting me about £200 to supply and fit a new t/stat?

Thanks and happy motoring,

DBRG

[ian in lancs]

Its either thermostat, sensor/sender or gauge. I'd go for the thermostat first. I would guess about £100 at an indie. It wont damage the car but might cause it to change the fueling assuming the engine is cold and maybe harm the catalytic converter.