car started with no clutch pushed in?

[hunter325i]

um i have driven many 5/spds in my life and never has one started without the clutch being pushed in....ya mine did the other day....this is the first BMW 5 spd i have driven so im pretty sure its not normal...but help me out here?

[witeshark]

Yeah, it's normal. My E30 never had a clutch starter cut off either.

[thekid]

Yep it is normal. I've had 2 E36's and it was the case on both. It is scary the first time you realize it though.

[drz]

Yup. That is how they work.

[hunter325i]

hahahah ok, PHEW!!!! well good to know

[witeshark]

Just always check for neutral on start up

[nukeduster]

yea. why i never recommend getting a remote start on bmw manuals. they will drive down the street on the starter and hit something.

[witeshark]

^^^ Wow interesting thought. My neighbor has remote start on her STS.

[SHAHAB323IS]

if you have a 98 or later they have a clutch switch, so the clutch does have to be pushed in to start the car

[nousablenames133]

it'll save you when one of your clutch cylinders goes out

[olds72]

that's normal both of mine do the same.

[saylee]

yea...its really normal, but even though i still tend to push the clutch in to start the car...i think its just a habit

[///M Power]

Originally Posted by SHAHAB323IS

if you have a 98 or later they have a clutch switch, so the clutch does have to be pushed in to start the car

I thought it was 97's +

[Nova]

Yeah mine didn't pass safety because of this. But that's the kind of expertise you get when a Ford dealership does your safety...

[dark_islight]

Freaked me out the first time it happened.