Starting problems

[red86e30]

My '86 (gray market) 325i has severe starting problems. Sometimes it starts - sometimes it doesn't. I've taken it to be repaired twice. Both times they claimed it was fixed - both times I got stuck somewhere because it wouldn't start. After waiting for a time (5 minutes, one day, etc) it will start. Has anyone any advice for me? It's been sitting for about a year because I have no confidence in it's reliability. When working, it's the best of my 3 Bimmers (2 ea 1990 325i's).

[fastshivy]

Ignition or fuel pump relays can cause these kinds of problems. The coil windings get weak when hot and won't close the contacts. I have pryed the covers off the relays and manually (with my fingers) closed them under a no start condition and the car would start fine and stall as soon as I let the contacts go. I am not that familiar with your particular car, but it may be worth a shot. What has been done so far?

[Starmavin]

Test your coolant temp sensor. Also, check your connectors to your crank sensors just below the starter. (don't mix them up)