2002 325 Ci (E46) won't start...

[JamesAllis]

My car won't start. It has power, the starter engages, but it idles out. I think it might be a fuel supply issue and I am going to check the spark plugs. I already checked the fuel pump fuse at position #36 and it is healthy. I am brand new to bimmerwekz so i could use all the help i can get. I see people referring to a "bentley book" I assume it is a manual for car repairs and i would love to know where to get one. Any help you can give would be great.

[matty427]

Hi James, Google "Bently's auto manuals" and you will find where to get one.
The manual walks you through the fuel system starting at the fuel rail to check for pressure, then the fuse, the relay (how to test and jump the relay but a PITA to get at), and finally the fuel pump voltage etc. Also could be the fuel filter or pressure regulator. The most difficult job is changing out the pump, but relativly easy compared to many cars where you have to drop the fuel tank. The access is from under the rear seat. Good luck.

[theluis]

One thing I would try is checking for the fuel pump making noise.. if you have some one turn the key to the run position it should turn on for about 2-3 seconds and u should hear a whine coming from the fuel tank area.. if you hear the whine than you most likely have fuel pressure.. then check spark take one of the coils out and stick a screw drive in where the spark plug should be and with someone cranking the car put the screw drive close to a groung and you should see a small spark. (You might tven feel it lol)

[matty427]

Agree with theluis but sometimes the pump will crank without much pressure. That's why checking the pressure at the rail is necessary. Also the pres. regulator and filter are a combined unit so make sure the're functioning properly. About 60 bucks and should probably be changed as a maintenance item.