You either have a bad fan relay which is easy to change( in the fuse box) or a bad thermo temperature sensor (screws into the radiator). Change the relay first(do it yourself) If they still run then you'll need BMW mechanics for the sensor.
The 2006 relay is the auxillary fan replay on a 1996 BMW. The BMW is an all American ritzy car. Most prefer a Porsche as well. These cars are very expensive.
Typical causes for this car to overheat would be blown head gasket, coolant leak, thermostat frozen in closed position, failed fan clutch, failed auxillary fan or auxillary fan switch, blockage in radiator or coolant lines or an oil leak.
Fan raley Where
Replace the climate control/fan circuit fuse.
Check the fan's fuse in the fuse box. it may be a bad one.
how to remove the clutch fan on the 530i bmw
Either the fan is no good or the heat sensor in your radiator, that turns the fan on is not working!!
Leave Belts on the pullys use a 32mm wrench turn clock wise, once its the fan is broke loose you can grab fan and spin off.
The fan will not turn on till your vehicle is at operating temperature. Check it again when the engine is hot.
key wont turn so i can start 1996 aero star ford fan
check your relay for the cooling fan and fuelpump
When the air conditioning is activated the auxiliary fan relay turns the fan on to maximize cooling It controls the auxiliary fan, which comes on to aid in cooling during heavy loads.