Help! Coolant pump/bleed procedure won't start!

[RenaissanceMan]

Hey folks just got done doing some cooling system work on my 06 e90 325i and for some strange reason I can't get the bleeding process to begin. I've done this a couple times in the past by following these instructions:

Insert key
Turn on accessories using start button
Set heat to highest temp and fan speed to low
Push accelerator pedal all the way down for 10 seconds
Pump should start the 12 min bleed process

For whatever reason my pump will not activate. Does anyone have any idea what the problem might be? I've got to get this car running by the morning. Any help greatly appreciated!

As a backup plan, can you manually bleed the system effectively like an older car by running it with bleed screw open until air escapes??

[Old525i]

I think the B book says you need a battery charger connected as well because the procedure consumes a lot of power.

[RenaissanceMan]

I do have a battery charger connected... Still no activation. :(

[cochise325]

Have you verified that all your connections are good?

[RenaissanceMan]

Quick update: Looks like the electric water pump died. I used my INPA software to read the error codes and attempt cycle the pump on directly from the program. Still no movement. Got 2 error codes that indicated no communication with pump and pump speed probs. Checked the voltage at the pump and all was normal, so I'm assuming no blown fuse. Also disconnected, cleaned, and reconnected the connector to pump. Purchased (the very expensive) parts this morning along with new thermostat and will swap stuff out tonight after work.

[Old525i]

How many months/miles on the pump? Original to the car?

[RenaissanceMan]

How many months/miles on the pump? Original to the car?

106k on car and original pump.

[RenaissanceMan]

Quick update: I replaced the water pump and thermostat last night and all is working normal again. :D Well, except for my wallet, which took a huge hit from the cost of parts. Ouch.

[cochise325]

Don't feel too bad. Many of the pumps and thermostats fail by 75k miles. At least a failed water pump no longer ruins an engine. Chalk that up to the car being "smart" enough to know it is not getting the proper cooling, and preventing the driver from continuing to use the car in the normal operating mode.

Nuclear power plants need this technology ASAP, before the next meltdown. :)