97 M3 Won't Start - BMW Forum

raul · 02-28-2005, 02:35 PM

I have a 97 M3 and right now it won't start engine will not even turn. I already took the starter out and had it checked by a pofessional and they said nothing is wrong with it. Battery had been checked and it has a lot of charge. The only thing I havn't checked is the neutral safety switch because I don't know it's location. Can somebody please help me? thanks.....

Cebola_1 · 02-28-2005, 05:27 PM

Try another batery .... my e36 318tds from 1998 his on the third batery.
See the ECU if is OK.

BMWL2 · 02-28-2005, 09:16 PM

Does it make any sounds?

3serbmdubya · 02-28-2005, 09:21 PM

what caused it to stop starting? did you do anything to it recently? try shorting the starter and manualing starting it

Furious · 03-01-2005, 03:59 AM

damn thats a hard question, i have no idea where that switch is. like said above, any noise at all? or just wont turn over?

i honestly dont know where you can look for that switch but hopefully someone with an can help

raul · 03-01-2005, 10:28 AM

there is a small click that you can hear from the outside. I manual tested the starter and the engine turned. So I think something is wrong from the ignition switch to the starter. Does anybody know if the starter has a relay, and where is it located in the fuse box because I don't have an owners manual. Another thing I need to know how I can get the code for my radio. Thanks....

Furious · 03-01-2005, 12:34 PM

you sure its not something to do fuel? youve established that you have fuel?

spark
fuel
compression

raul · 03-01-2005, 12:45 PM

if it is the fuel, fuel pump, or fuel pump relay shouldn't the engine turn when you turn on the switch in the ignition. Because my problem is the engine will not turn when I turn on the switch in the ignition.

b3toy · 03-01-2005, 07:05 PM

Sounds like you need the services of an auto-electrician.

raul · 03-01-2005, 10:34 PM

does anybody know anything about ews in the car.

Dirty_Tool · 03-02-2005, 12:32 AM

Do you have another key? Maybe the key is faulty. EWS is a complicated system and not something that can be diagnosed without expensive equipment. 1 test you can do is with the drivers window down double lock the car using the key in the drivers door lock (maybe have a friend help) then put the key in the ignition and turn it to the accessory position (2nd click) If EWS recognizes and is happy with the key then the door locks will unlock. If not then you know for a fact that you have a key/EWS problem.
Good Luck,
DT

raul · 03-02-2005, 10:38 AM

I tried the process that you told me and the door didn't unlock. I hope I did it right. I open the driver windows, double lock the driver side door using the key, turn ignition to 2 and the door didn't unlock. So that means something is wrong with either the key or the ews?

95 m3/2T · 03-02-2005, 06:19 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by raul@Mar 1 2005, 09:28 AM
there is a small click that you can hear from the outside. I manual tested the starter and the engine turned. So I think something is wrong from the ignition switch to the starter. Does anybody know if the starter has a relay, and where is it located in the fuse box because I don't have an owners manual. Another thing I need to know how I can get the code for my radio. Thanks....

[snapback]301728[/snapback]

i believe it has a relay switch. ill do some research

Dirty_Tool · 03-03-2005, 12:08 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by raul@Mar 2 2005, 08:38 AM
I tried the process that you told me and the door didn't unlock. I hope I did it right. I open the driver windows, double lock the driver side door using the key, turn ignition to 2 and the door didn't unlock. So that means something is wrong with either the key or the ews?

[snapback]302484[/snapback]

You did it right, sounds like you do have a key or ews problem. By chance do you have another key that you can try? IF not then you may need to have a professional look at it or if you want to wing it you can order another key from the dealer and see if it fixes it.
Good Luck and keep us posted.

DT

3serbmdubya · 03-03-2005, 12:29 AM

dude just give me your car and save yourself the trouble

you said you manualy tested the starter and the engine turned? i seriously think you got a problem with the wiring. what happend to cause the engine to not turn when you start it w/ key? i downloaded the entire electrical manual for my car 93 325is so it might be the same for your car if you need diagrams. the starter relay is right on top of the starter and has the three prongs comming out of it

dirty tool: is that your intake manifold?.... cracked?! how'd you manage that