Major Problem! Help? - BMW Forum

CR+DR-Ltd · 11-15-2009, 10:01 AM

1999 e46 BMW 318 SE

Hi, I was driving along and I clipped a kerb and the front passenger airbag went off. I pulled in and turned the car off to see any damage. All there was, was a small scuff on the front passenger alloy. So I then tried to turn the car on to drive home but, it wouldn't come on. I managed to bump start it to get home but, it still won't turn over, it just clicks. Any help would be much appreciated. I know if I go to BMW they will be able to sort it but, I don't want to pay £120 per hour.

Torque · 11-15-2009, 10:20 AM

RealOEM.com * BMW E46 318i Rep.kit f safety battery terminal clamp

The positive battery cable has a pyro charge just like the airbag. When an airbag deploys, the cable is cut to shut off the car, unlock the doors and such.

Definitely sounds like that could be it in your case too; have a look at it.

ps. The bad part is, the whole cable has to be replaced and it's expensive.

CR+DR-Ltd · 11-15-2009, 10:32 AM

All the electrics were still working just the engine wouldn't start. When I did bumpstart it the battery light on the dashboard was stayed on

CR+DR-Ltd · 11-15-2009, 12:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Torque

RealOEM.com * BMW E46 318i Rep.kit f safety battery terminal clamp

The positive battery cable has a pyro charge just like the airbag. When an airbag deploys, the cable is cut to shut off the car, unlock the doors and such.

Definitely sounds like that could be it in your case too; have a look at it.

ps. The bad part is, the whole cable has to be replaced and it's expensive.

I managed to sort it. I took the plastic bit off the wire and just put it straight in to the battery. Now any help on sorting new airbags? Or do they cost loads? Thanks in advanc

BMWRider · 12-22-2009, 02:29 PM

I have the same problem with our 02 325i after a minor accident set off the drivers bag. Had the car towed home, but I would like to be able to start it to move it into the garage until it gets sent off to the shop. Can't drive it too far as the rad is leaking too, but it'll be ok for a minute or two.

Hopefully this is the problem so I can get it mobile with a temporary quick fix. Thanks to those who post these useful items of knowledge. A quick search here saved me time looking it up in the repair manual.