2006 325i, won't crank!

[Joshdfrazier]

Hello! First time posting here. Never even "lurked". This forum came highly
recommended by the folks at benzworld, where I've been a member for many years.

My 325i has developed a slow crank over the past 6 months or so. Attempted to start it recently, and it simply would not turn over. Tried jumping it with a 900cca battery, as well as jumping it from a running vehicle, and nothing. It sometimes feels as though it's "trying" to turn over.

I feel like it's the starter. I've watched the videos, read the horror stories of accessing that thing. Would love to eliminate all other possible culprits before I go tearing into the car.

I'm including a video so ya'll can see exactly what's happening. Thanks!

https://youtu.be/sCd8yxntHrg

[Pelican Parts]

Maybe a faulty crankshaft sensor? Are you able to have the codes read? It'll give you a great place to start troubleshooting.


-Dmitry

[Joshdfrazier]

Thanks for the reply! I actually don't have a way to test codes. Never worked on a "new" car with OBD. I'm in it for the long haul now, though. Any best bang for the buck scanners I should be aware of?

[MIKYZZ4]

From your description and the video, I can't help but say: You Have A Discharged Battery!
Remove battery-hook up to charger-charge overnight on slow charge-reinstall with a clean, snug connection-start car.

[Pelican Parts]

Thanks for the reply! I actually don't have a way to test codes. Never worked on a "new" car with OBD. I'm in it for the long haul now, though. Any best bang for the buck scanners I should be aware of?


We have quite a bit on site, but this one is very reasonably priced and would work well. If you have any questions, give us a call at 888-280-7799 and one of our BMW parts specialists can go over the features or others that we have.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/ShopCart/tool/POR_TOOL_WTD047_pg10.htm


-Dmitry

[Joshdfrazier]

Thank you for all the replies. I went out and bought an actron scanner. It is throwing exactly ZERO codes.

I'm not sure if the battery is the issue. It certainly feels that way though, and I keep revisiting this possibility. I removed the leads from the battery terminals, and popped a known good battery (900cca) in there. Still won't start. I also had another running vehicle jumping the 325i, to get as much current as possible. That was as close as I could get. Would crank very slowly for about 1 second, then everything stops, and it's like the vehicle resets itself. It really seems like an electrical issue. Is there something "special" about the oem spec battery that I'm missing?

Also, service engine soon light is on.

[MIKYZZ4]

I still recommend the charging procedure posted above, if just to confirm its condition.
That said, now we need to diagnose the no start issue.Having a scan done for BMW codes is the first step. You've attempted with a generic scan tool, it produced no usable results.
The preferred method is a scan performed by a BMW specific scan tool / BMW software,
as they can communicate with all BMW modules in the vehicles diagnostic system,
something generic scanning cannot do.
There is nothing special about the battery, it's the computer systems in the vehicle that are temperamental about stable minimum voltage parameters.
Your going to need a BMW specific scan tool/software to communicate with this vehicle.

[RocketSurgeon]

Any best bang for the buck scanners I should be aware of?

The actron scanners certainly have their place, but for the most capability use the PC based ISTA software. If you get yourself a K+DCAN cable (preferrably one with a switch ~$20), I can give you download links for ISTA+. That will give you dealer level diagnostic capabilities.
As far as the no start situation, my bet is the starter is bad. The e90 is really easy to turn over, it will start even with a pretty weak battery. You might also check the connections to make sure nothing is loose or corroded. The starter really isn't that terrible to change. You probably need to remove the intake manifold and a couple other things to get to it, but it's not a big deal.

[MIKYZZ4]

After going over your initial post, I agree with RocketSurgeon, the starter has been gradually failing. Your description of the starters gradual decline is the clue.
If you need confirmation of failure, remove starter and take it to your nearest AutoZone for testing.

Sorry to say, most generic Actron scanners are useless,when it comes to communicating with BMW computers.
For a readily available handheld, I prefer the Carly App, a scan is as close as your smartphone.
INPA Software installed on a computer seems to be the preferred choice for the savvy laptop users here.

[White94RX]

It's the starter. If you've tried to jump it off, and/or used a new battery, and still nothing, then i can just about guarantee you need a new starter. N52 starters aren't worth a shit


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Joshdfrazier]

Sold on this forum, thanks ya'll. Very helpful. Wish I had something to contribute! Ordered a new Bosch starter, and removed everything preventing access to the starter today. I'll update when I pop in the replacement. Thanks again. (I was also able to return that useless scanner!)

White94rx, it seems like a lot of people on the internet share your sentiment, including me.

[MIKYZZ4]

This is the best BMW forum on the internet, but I troll them all for info.

[Pilgrim]

Just as a note, the first thing to do in a case like this is always to charge the battery fully. Every garage needs a good charger.

[MIKYZZ4]

Yes Pilgrim, it's a point I try to get across repeatedly.
It's basically a prerequisite, before attempting diagnosis.

[07lilredwagon]

my starter went the same way with the same symptoms.....which point to the battery. If the battery load tests okay, then its probably the starter.

remove intake manifold, disconnect battery, remove starter, replace with new starter.....car will crank like a champ!

Parts:
intake manifold gasket set (dealer has a pretty good price, actually)
starter (bosch rebuilt or new units available)

check your oil filter housing gasket while you have the intake off...its MUCH easier to change that way. also, if your car has ever had trouble starting after a fill up, replace the fuel tank vent/purge valve...its under the intake too.....

JP

[Joshdfrazier]

So, I replaced the starter today. Triple checked my work, used a good battery, and it's exhibiting the same symptoms. Starter won't even turn over. This MUST be an electrical issue. Perhaps a short somewhere? Though I don't know how that would result in perceived gradual failure of the starter. Dunno, but man am I bummed. Really thought It was gonna start today!

[Joshdfrazier]

Would just like to wrap this thread up. Starter was the issue. Turns over "like a champ" now. :)

Took a lot of trying initially, but it finally turned over. Thanks you guys!

[MIKYZZ4]

Glad your perseverance solved your issue!