help! ignition problem - BMW Forum

sonny325i · 10-24-2005, 10:31 AM

i had a hard time starting my car this weekend...at one one time i was able to get it to start...but then the next day it was more difficult...i thought it was maybe the fuel pump or it was just a cold start..but then i checked the spark plugs and there was no spark coming from the spark plugs and the plugs are brand new..i dont knwo what could be wrong and i kinda dont want to take it to the dealer...so yeah i need help!

97alpineM3 · 10-24-2005, 10:37 AM

What kind of spark plugs are you using?... OEM are the best for a rather picky distributorless ignition system...

Also.... I've had many members have problems with cold starts and starting alone with a weak battery installed... have you checked the voltage of the batt. lately?

Good Luck,

Les

thekid · 10-24-2005, 10:44 AM

Does the car make a clicking sound or not when you turn the key? Does your radio come on when you turn the key to the accessory position?

sonny325i · 10-24-2005, 11:00 AM

i had to buy a new battery cuz the old one died while i kept on trying to start the engine

no, it doesnt make clicking sound and yes the radio does come on when i turn the key to the accesory position.

could it be the ignition module? a mechanic suggested that to me but i cant even locate where that is

sonny325i · 10-24-2005, 11:01 AM

oh and im using the bosch platinum 2+ spark plugs

97alpineM3 · 10-24-2005, 11:16 AM

No clicking means your starter is not turning... which means one of two things... either your power lines going to the starter are dead or shorted... or your starter selenoid is fried....

Les

sonny325i · 10-24-2005, 01:36 PM

if there is a clicking sound...and yet no spark on the spark plugs...what else could be the problem?

Delmarco · 10-26-2005, 02:03 AM

Alternator is damaged if your sense that the lack of starting seems electrical...
Usually when the problem is electrical you hear "clicking sounds" or sounds as if the engine is trying to draw power but can't.

It is was fuel or ignition related...there would be no sounds, and either the car would chuckle into a slow hard start or would not start...

With E36 fuel related can also mean O2/air mass sensor (more common).