Overheated BMW '99 323i - Have I Cooked The Aluminum Block?

Question

The cooling fan went out w/ no warning and temp guage went up in the red... Immediately shut it down and bought a new fan (havent had it put in yet, but havent been driving either) There is no white foamy residue on oil cap, but what I would describe as a rusty-ish brown residue. I know these cars have alum heads - Based on the oil-cap residue alone, is this now a bad motor for sure? I'm trying to decide whether to take it to a local shop (trustworthy, had work there before) or just put it in the garage until i decide what to do w/ it.

FYI, the car has 144k on it.

Answer 1

look for aluminum transfer on the spark plugs -- silver or gray flecks.

Answer 2

why are you second guessing yourself.  I've had the temp gage go to the red in several cars, shut them down immediately and they suffered no damage.  Put the fan on and start it up.  try it

Answer 3

check for water in the oil as well as oil in radiator coolant, if OK then you may be OK. Another test would be to start engine with radiator cap removed and check for bubbles in radiator coolant, should not be any. Then run a compression test. Or take to your trusted mechanic and have him do an evaluation with an estimate to repair as needed.