1983 BMW 535i idling, RPM fluctuation, air intake

CHEETAH13

MEMBER
1983 BMW 535I
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

My BMW is a 533i, but that wasn't up there to check

So the key points are that when I start my car up, it idles really rough and even dies sometimes. Also, the rpm's fluctuate, which I know isn't supposed to happen.

The car performs very when once it gets going: no rpm fluctuation or shaking. It is only when it is idling that the car shakes and has a hard time.

I have thought, though not yet inspected, that the problem is in the air intake process or the fuel filter.

Please give me your take on my car's issues and problems and a way I can fix it. Thank you

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The M-30 is a good motor and it is sensitive to spark gap and throttle plate adjustment as well as the possibility the idle air control is a bit gummed up. Let me know what you found out after these checks are made.