[Paul_F]

For anyone who isn't sure about doing this on their own - go for it. With key help from my neighbor, we were able to use the information on this post and replace a water pump (2007 328i) and thermometer and I have zero experience working on cars. Plan on a full day, well worth the savings.

The posts and the videos (and a friend) are all you need.

What we found most helpful:

1) Pull the fan. I don't know how else I would have got the top bolt on the pump out.
2) Use the silicone spray - the hoses were the long pole in the tent and I didn't have it.
3) Anyone in the Hampton Roads area: I found good value on parts at Bap Geon.
4) Buy an E12 Torx - found it at Napa Auto Parts.
5) If you have a push button start, to enable the test mode and self-purge the air, press the start button without stepping on the brake, then do the heater / gas pedal dance.
6) Buy the replacement parts first so you can mock it up and understand how the system works. This helped put all the pictures and videos into context before we pulled the first screw.

Thanks again for everything to all who wrote before me - follow the guidance and save a buck or two.