Will not crank

Hi and thanks for using 2carpros.com.

First and foremost, if you see smoke and smell wires burning, disconnect the battery. Otherwise, you could end up with a fire.

Now, when it shut off while driving, did the oil light come on and then the engine shut off? Is there oil in the engine? If you were out of oil and the engine locked, the starter won't be able to turn the engine and it will draw too many amps from the battery. This could easily start a fire.

With that being said, I suggest seeing if you can turn the engine crankshaft by hand using a large wrench. If you can, remove the starter and have it tested.

*** Note: Do not remove the starter without first disconnecting the battery.

Here is a link that shows in general how to remove a starter. In the US, the 118 isn't offered, so I don't have the technical info specific to your vehicle. However, this should help.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Now, if the starter checks good and the engine isn't locked, you have a wiring issue that needs resolved. Based on your description, if you don't have experience, I recommend having a technician check it.

Honestly, disconnect the battery when you are not there. If you have a wire melting the insulation off, if it shorts directly due to no insulation, you may get yourself in trouble. I've seen many fires caused by electrical issues.

Let me know if you have other questions or need help. I'll do my best to do so. Also, if you get back to me, let me know approximately where the smoke was coming from.

Take care,
Joe

Okay, since the light came on prior to you turning it off, it may have been out of oil or extremely low. Check and confirm the oil level in the engine and let me know what you find. Also, see if you are able to turn the engine at the crankshaft using a wrench. I'm worried that the engine may have seized and that is why the starter is getting extremely hot and not able to turn the engine.

Hi again:
The crankshaft pulley is at the front of the engine at the bottom. It will have an accessory belt routed around it to operate the alternator, power steering. In the center of that pulley is a large bolt which holds the dampener and pulley assembly on the crankshaft. Get a socket that fits that bolt and a long handled ratchet or breaker bar and see if you can turn the engine (you will see the pulley turn if it turns).

I attached a picture of a common BMW crankshaft pulley. You want to try turning it from the larger center bolt and not the smaller ones with the arrows pointing to them.

Let me know if this helps.

Joe