97 M3/4/5 won't start

[schach23]

Hey guys

New owner of a '97 M3/4/5. 160k on the clock. Previous owner had lots of maintenance done, I have all the records. Well maintained vehicle. On my 1300 mile trip home after one stop for gas it had a slow crank but then started. No other problems. A few days ago to come home from work had another slow crank then it sorta sped up and started. Yesterday same issue. Today same issue but now it won't start. Yesterday I tested the battery while running, showed 14 volts. Battery not running 12.5 volts. Date on the battery is 3/09. Today battery again 12.5 volts but can't start it. It acts like it wants to try to turn over but just doesn't. Could be the starter? Try a new battery first?

Thanks

Scott

[realjones]

If you move the key to position 2, leave it for a few seconds, then try to start does it crank up better? Just something to try. Replacing a 9 year old battery is a good place to start regardless before you go too far down the rabbit hole trying to pin it down.

[tvcasualty]

A healthy battery is usually in the 13v range. 13.2 Especially coming right off a charge by the alt.

9 yrs old plus that i would bet on it. You can take it to an auto parts store and have it load tested to be 1000%

Or If you have a DVM and another person someone can crank the car while you watch the voltage drop.

[ScotcH]

Boost it for a few min, then try starting ... does it turn over faster when hooked up? If so, likely your battery. If still sluggish, it could be starter getting weak. Battery is easier to replace, so start there

Also make sure your grounds are good and clean, both on the battery, and at the engine

[schach23]

Thanks everyone. Getting battery today. Autozone tester said old one had a bad cell. Hope it works. Starter looks like a bear to replace


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