Starter Help 1997 E39 - BMW Forum

mochoa5620 · 03-06-2004, 11:29 AM

Does anybody know if the E39 has a ignition solenoid that could be bad instead of starter. My engine is not turning over once key is turned. Battery is fully charged and no other indication is given.

Furious · 03-06-2004, 04:06 PM

probably the starter, i dont recall the solenoids causing a non-turnover. but i could very well be wrong on that. (my e39 knowledge is limited)

b.werrell · 03-06-2004, 04:07 PM

I had same problem it was the solenoid on the starter motor.
When I turned the key Nothing happend.

Get somebody to turn the key and then give the solenoid a tap with a metal bar ie trolley jack handle.

Cure was to replace starter

If it's a m52 engine you can do the job from the top

and euro car parts charged 95 pounds for the starter.

hope this helps

Furious · 03-06-2004, 04:34 PM

good info b.werrell also welcome to the forum.

EXtech · 03-07-2004, 12:14 AM

is your car a manual?? could be a clutch switch also or a gear selector switch on an automatic. Point is, I would be sure what is wrong so you don't waste money or time. Good Luck !!

mochoa5620 · 03-07-2004, 11:10 AM

I checked the switch and found it almost apart in two pieces. It seems that a small amount of brake fluid leaked from cluth master cyc and managed to get inside switch and ruined the little electronic board inside. This swithc is a non-contact type and has a small IC board that measures weather is open/closed.

You guys saved me $200 + labor on new starter. Thanks alot.