For the past few weeks my 528i has occasionally not started on the first try. Usually a cold start. Then always goes on the second. Well, that is until this AM. Nothing at all. Where should I start looking for the cause?
Engine turns over easily but did not catch. Main Fuel pump is less than a year old. I checked the fuel pump fuse and there's no visible corrosion. It's also a new ceramic fuse. Replaced combination relay late last year.
I seem to have also misplaced my Haynes manual as well. Do any of you know the specs to test my ignition coil and cold start valve resistances off hand?
No start today
No start today
1980 528i
It should start fine without the cold start valve, especially this time of year. So cross that off. Test the fuel pump by pulling off the intake boot and pushing in on the AFM flap with the ignition on. That should turn on the fuel pump. Test ignition by removing the cap and pulling off the high voltage lead from the coil. Then test for spark by holding or wedging it close, but not on something metal that's grounded and rock the dist rotor back and forth. There's usually enough play from the centrifugal advance to allow the field to make and break.
Mike W.
02 525ita. Wife's, aka grocery getter
02 530i. New to the fleet, 3 pedals.
03 QX4, AKA the Datsun. Finally got the 4WD vacationmoble to stop smoking.
07 Xterra. Still on the DL, a purchase from hell.
02 525ita. Wife's, aka grocery getter
02 530i. New to the fleet, 3 pedals.
03 QX4, AKA the Datsun. Finally got the 4WD vacationmoble to stop smoking.
07 Xterra. Still on the DL, a purchase from hell.
to test spark
I would test spark next time it doesn't start. Take an old spark plug and put it in either the coil lead or a spark plug wire end. Rest the side of the spark plug on the valve cover so it gets a ground. DO NOT HOLD THE PLUG!!! spin the engine over and check to see if there is a spark and what color the spark is. Blue to white is good. Orange to red is bad... No spark tells you its the coil or further up the line. There may be corrosion in the coil leads that when it warms up makes proper contact.
Good luck.
Sam
Good luck.
Sam
78 530i 3.5L
80 520/6
71 2002
76 2002 parts
83 635csi Euro
87 325i
88 Toyota 4-Runner
88 Toyota 4-Runner V6
88 Toyota pickup
2017 Toyota Tacoma
1997 F350
2007 Honda Accord
2008 Honda Civic
80 520/6
71 2002
76 2002 parts
83 635csi Euro
87 325i
88 Toyota 4-Runner
88 Toyota 4-Runner V6
88 Toyota pickup
2017 Toyota Tacoma
1997 F350
2007 Honda Accord
2008 Honda Civic
