Starter not working?

CHEVNOV

MEMBER
2005 BMW 525I

2005 BMW 525i

I recently replaced the battery it worked fine but now it wont start the alternator isnt making noise and I tried jumpstarting it but it didnt work the battery reads 11.8 v

Thursday, August 26th, 2010 AT 1:27 AM

13 Replies

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

I strongly recommend against jump starting modern BMW cars. Damage to the electronics can happen when there are large voltages excursions. Charge the battery to 100% state of charge. Check the voltage when running. If it is not 14+ volts, the alternator will require replacement.

It sounds like the starter is not working this guide will help confirm the issue.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Please run down this guide and report back.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

BMW 525I 2002

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2 POSTS
2002 BMW 525I
80,000 MILES

Hi Guys,
I have owned my BMW 525i auto for six weeks and have had several mornings with a dead battery. It is a 2002 model and up until it's last morning of not starting, the weather was frosty. Two day's ago, the weather was wet without frost and the battery was dead again. I took it back to the dealer and he agreed to replace the battery at a 50% cost to myself. I took it in again and after holding onto it for a day and a half, this time told me he had the coils cleaned. It ran for four days and then on a morning where I really needed to get going, it was dead. All dash lights are on and the starter clicks when the key is turned, a boost get's it started and it holds a charge for the rest of the day without fault. It's still under an agreed warranty, any help appreciated guys and I am more than happy to supply more details, thanks.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

FIXITMR

MECHANIC
9,990 POSTS

I'm surprised they are unable to locate drain on battery. Appears it is not consistant and when they have it it does not do it.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

BMW 525I 2002

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2 POSTS

I am surprised too fixitmr, I really think they are worried about dipping their hands in their pockets. I have hired an auto electrician today and hope he will get the job done correctly. I will then bill the garage directly as they are still responsible for breaching their promise.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The issue is possibly due to the final stage unit that controls the fan motor, it is a known battery draw. FYI never jump start the car, the sensitivity of the electronics is such that there is a tanker truck full of mischief just waiting to dump on you if you do.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

BRUCE YOUNG

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1 POST
2001 BMW 525I

Engine Mechanical problem
2001 BMW 525i 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

battery has a full charge, sometimes it will start and sometimes not. I have been told it could be a relay switch. It will just make a loud clicking noise, but with the head lights on and trying to start the headlights to not dim. What do you think relay switch, starter or solenoid

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

An intermittent issue can be one of the most difficult things that we as technicians have to deal with. To be sure, it seems as though the starter has issues. If the solenoid is pulling in and making that clicking sound, but the starter motor doesn't turn, then I suspect the solenoid on the starter. See if there is voltage present at the solenoid trigger wire when this clicking is happening. If there is voltage present, you may well be looking at replacement of the starter due to the solenoid not sending power to the starter motor. That is my guess mate, hope it helps.

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Friday, July 17th, 2020 AT 10:21 AM (Merged)

LEONZA