BMW Not Starting? It Could Be One of These Issues
You expect your BMW to run perfectly fine every time you turn on its ignition; after all, it is the only mode of your daily commute. But sometimes, your BMW may refuse to start. The reason could be one of many different things. In this blog post, we have covered some of the possible explanations as to why your vehicle may refuse to come to life.
Plus, as you read on, you'll discover some solutions to your BMW's starting troubles. Hence it is advised that you read this blog post in its entirety.
Possible Reasons Why Your BMW Won’t Start
From a defective ignition switch to a dying battery; there are many reasons why your BMW may not start. Some of them are briefly discussed below.
#1- The battery has had its days
The battery is at the center of your BMW’s electrical system. From the starter motor to the fuel pump; everything that requires electricity to function relies on the battery. In essence, your car needs to have a good battery to operate smoothly. If there is not much life left in the battery, then you will face all kinds of problems while driving your BMW which includes starting problems. Your BMW will also experience electrical problems if the alternator is bad.
Evaluate the condition of the battery/alternator.
You can make use of a multimeter to do so.
If the battery is old/defective, replace it.
If the problem is in the alternator, try to fix it.
If the alternator is beyond repair, replace it.
Keep a jumper cable in your trunk.
#2- Malfunctioning ignition switch
If there is nothing wrong with the battery and alternator, there may be a problem with the ignition switch. After all, a properly functioning ignition switch is essential for the engine to come to life. It is a very complex piece of equipment that essentially provides power to the starter motor, ignition system, and other major components to bring the engine to life. So, obviously… you won’t be able to start your BMW if its ignition switch is defective.
Check for worn ignition switch contacts.
Check for damaged components.
If there is a fault, fix it.
If the issue is beyond repair, replace the entire unit.
Check whether the key is in good condition.
#3- Damaged ignition system
Is there a chance that you haven't changed your vehicle's spark plugs for a while? Because bad spark plugs can make it really difficult for you to start your car. Plus, if there is something wrong with the ignition coil, you won't be able to start your BMW. In addition to trouble starting the engine, a faulty ignition system can also contribute to stalling, misfiring, and other drivability problems in a vehicle. Respond to this problem right away if you don't want to make the situation worse.
Use a spark plug tester to evaluate the condition of the spark plugs.
If you found a faulty spark plug, replace it right away.
Check the ignition coil and its relay.
Also, make sure other components of the ignition system are working fine.
#4- Failing starter motor
If you are having trouble starting your BMW; most of the time, it's due to a defective starter motor. The starter motor, as most of you probably know, is the device that turns the engine over so that it can start operating on its own. If it wears out or fails to engage with the engine, the engine will not be able to draw air and fuel into the cylinders and may not start.
Check for faulty electrical connections.
Check whether the starter solenoid is in good condition.
Evaluate the condition of the pinion gear and other key components.
Check for loose wire and electric short circuits.
#5- Issue with the timing belt/chain
Starting trouble in a car can also result from a defective timing belt/chain. Since the timing chain plays a vital role in syncing the movement of various engine shafts; if it becomes worn or loose, the engine will struggle to come to life, no matter how hard you try. The timing chain, if it becomes loose or damaged, can contribute to a number of engine-related problems in your car.
Keep an eye on your BMW’s timing chain/belt.
If you notice something unusual, contact a mechanic.
Don’t take any chance when it comes to the timing chain.
A car that is hard to start is not something that is easy to drive. If you are having trouble starting your BMW, check to see if there is any life left in the battery. If there is nothing wrong with the battery, have someone check on your vehicle’s starter motor, timing chain, ignition switch, and other components.
