1995 325is - Ignition Issue

[mcasemo]

I have a 1995 325is that periodically will not start when warm. It always starts when cold. But, if I drive around making several stops, it periodically will not start up. All electronics work, just no starter motion. I think I hear the fuel pump working as well. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes before it will start working again.

This does not happen consistently, about once every couple of months. Anyone have this problem or know the cause?

Thanks,
Mark C

[Cruzin 323is]

it wont start when warm... meaning..... when its warm outside, or the motor is warm...

what do u hear, or feel when the car doesnt start...?

[mcasemo]

Sorry, I meant when the motor is warm. It only happens after I have been driving around a bit, making a few stops. Then it won't start for about 15 minutes. I only hear the radio eventually come on, think I hear the fuel pump as well. I've read somewhere about an ignition "delay relay" on 95's, but could not find any info anywere else about it.

[Dudesky_E36]

This may or may not not have any relevance here, but on old cars, that usually means the starter is on its way out. But I don't have any experience with BMW starters

[e36surge]

I have had the same issues, even posted this problam on this board a few times. When the weather is warm and after driving in traffic in warm weather, if I turn off the engine and try to start it, my car won't start. I'll have to wait 20 minutes to an hour before it starts. Meaning the starter doesn't engage at all. No power gets to the starter, no engine turnover no clicking no nothing. No noises are made but all electronics are fine.

I have changed my starter, changed the starter relay, changed the battery and taken a look at the EWS. Still had the issue come back.

The only solution I've had luck with is making sure that the contacts going to the starter (neg. and pos.) are clean and well fastened. I went as far as changing my ground line to the starter. Remember the hotter a cable gets the harder it is for current to run through that electrical line

The best solution is to somehow shield the starter from the engine and manifold heat and replace the lines going to the starter.

[polaris448]

this might sound dumb but, will the car start if you pop the clutch? i know that some starters have a thermal fuse that will not allow the starter to work if it is too hot. like if you had no gas and tried to start it for ten min. just a thought.

[mcasemo]

polaris448 - I have an automatic transmission, so can't try popping the clutch.

e36surge - thanks for the info.

Mark

[e36surge]

mcasemo - you're welcome, let us know what happens.

Mine is automatic too. Had this same problem with my 1979 320is.

As for the thermal fuse... not too sure if e36 starters have one. Perhaps the solenoid on the starter gets too hot. But it also may cause this situation. However, I did change my starter which came with a new solenoid. I do know that cooling the starter with forced air worked when I had this issue the last time worked.

If there's someone out there with better knowledge on the inner workings of the starter and it's electrical components I'd appreciate an explanation on this situation... and hopefully finally find a solution to this problem.

[mcasemo]

Replaced the started, everything is fine now, except my wallet.