BMW Repair: cooling problem, heading in the right direction, head gasket

Question
Hey,
  Thanks for listening.  I'm a college student i am in possession of a 1994 BM4 318i convertable.  I left it in idle while listening to music and the car overheated.  Sinced then it has had serious cooling problems.  I don't have the money to pay for a mechanic to fix every little problem.  Could you point me in the direction of what my problem might be?  I understand that in 1998 they did a recall of these series of cars with similar problems.

Answer
Well Adam, Unfortunately this may not be a little problem.  First you should check to see if you are low on antifreeze and add if needed.  Your water pump may not be working causing it to over heat, your thermostat may be stuck closed causing it to over heat, your fan may not be kicking on causing it to over heat, your head gasket may be blown casuing it to over heat.  You really should have someone look at it and determine what is wrong.  You don't have to let them fix it if it is unreasonable and shop around for a better price, but at least you will know what is wrong with it and will be heading in the right direction.  Also, if your car is over heating, you should not be driving it or letting it sit and idle.  Serious engine damage can occur from this.. Hope this helps..Let me know.

Rahim..