Poor Starting - Lots Of Smoke

[Domi]

bmw 318tds 1996

I have trouble starting the car especially when cold and still quite poor when it is warm.

It will turn over for about 1 minute sometimes then it will start with lots of light grey smoke pouring out.
I have changed the glow plugs and fuel filter but still no different.

I suspect it was the fuel filter housing sucking in air but i can not see any bubbles as you would expect in the fuel lines.
the glow plug relay is staying on correctly.

I had a diagnostic reading with a result of CODE 10.
this was pointing to possible fuel quantity problem.
Has any one had this problem or can they help please.

Many thanks

[Boxbrownie]

Sounds like you may be having problems with the glow plugs or the glow plug circuit, have you tried turning ignition on until the glow plug light goes out then turning on again until the light goes out before starting? That will tell you if it could be old/tired glow plugs. You could try this three or four times before trying to start the car.

Does the grey smoke go once the car is warm?

Grey smoke indicates it is running rich, ie unburnt fuel......where are you? I think you need to see a diesel specialist, it will be quicker and cheaper than going to a dealer I expect.

[Domi]

I have replaced the glow plugs and they are switching on for about 20 seconds - changing them did not make any difference.

[Boxbrownie]

In that case I would suggest that you take notice of the fault code and get yourself along to a diesel specialist, after having first enquired at you local friendly BMW stealership as to whether they have had that particular fault code flagged before on the tds models, you might get some usueful info before you run away to the specialist to get it repaired at half price! :lol:

Best regards David