Engine will not start

1994 BMW 840
123,000 MILES
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KAYINDISYS
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  • 3 POSTS
I have a BMW 840ci v8 automatic parked for 6 months with both batteries dead. Got new batteries and tried to restart. The engine turns and all electrics seem to work, but the engine will not start. Any ideas, Kay
Apr 29, 2013 at 4:18 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Probably lost alignment with the EWS module
It will perhaps require realignment and it will need to go to your BMW service provider
Apr 29, 2013 at 6:35 AM
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KAYINDISYS
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I got RAC to look at the car and he diagnosed fuel pump, checked the fuel pump, all OK. Checked the fuel pump relay, diagnosed it was sticky, jump started with directed cable connection to the positive bolt in the engine, the car started. Left the car running for about 15 minutes then drove for about 500 metres, TRANS FAIL-SAFE PROG message came and the car limped and cut off all power. Disconnected the batteries to reset, but there was no power still. Called out RAC again, he checked the batteries and both brand new batteries were down to 0. He concluded there was serious electrical problem. The car had to be flat bed recovered to the garage. The batteries were disconnected while we ait for the recovery vehicle for about 30 minutes, then reconnected the batteries so I can roll up the windows, there was power and the engine started. Attempted to drive to safe location off the main road, 50 metres, the same message came on again. Any ideas?
Apr 30, 2013 at 10:48 AM
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KAYINDISYS
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Thanks Dr Hagerty. Update above.
Apr 30, 2013 at 10:49 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Let me know what is found at the garage
May 1, 2013 at 7:29 AM
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