Update, I got the new alternator and, as expected, it still did not start. I took the manifold off yesterday and bench tested the starter and indeed it was bad. Strange coincidences. When taking the manifold off I followed a nice set of instruction from BMW repair guide. However, they do not remove the throttle body to unscrew the wiring harness, but instead take it off the manifold after the manifold is unbolted. This proved to be a mistake for me, since moving the manifold to reach the wire harness bolts resulted in me breaking the crankshaft position sensor connector. I think I found a repair kit, but it will be a pain to repair. Please let me know if you have any hints on how best to fix the [size=13px]connector.[/size]

 

OK, finished replacing the starter and that was definitely the problem. The car starts easier and stronger than it ever did. Since I broke the crankshaft position sensor connector when taking the manifold off, I replaced the connector and sensor. Prior to the fix, the transmission shifts from 1st to 2nd and maybe 2nd to 3rd were not smooth. The repairs fixed that and the transmission shifts like it was new. Also, replacing the CCV and inner (lower) disa valve seem to have smoothed out the idle a bit. Still not perfect but definitely better and the car is a bit sprightlier off the line. So all around a big improvements. Now just waiting for the vacuum leak to arise due to strong arming the CCV hose leading to the valve cover into place .....

 

How many hours labor can I expect to pay a master BMW mechanic (not the dealer) to replace my starter? I think mine is starting to go. I have an indy that I use and he last quoted me $800 to do the job.

 

That sounds about right. I can check Mitchel to get you the exact labor hours for the job when I get home

 

+1.

I actually did mine myself. It's really not too difficult if you have the right tools. Also, I did not completely remove the intake manifold.

 

2.9 labor hours to remove and replace starter motor. Part (12-41-2-354-701) is listed at $439. Labor is usually around $120/hr. This gives you a grand total of $787 without taxes and shop fees

 

$439 must be for Genuine BMW. I installed Bosch and it cost $150.

 

Of course you'd go OEM for DIY if you're doing it yourself because it's a lot cheaper

 

To give an idea of what it would cost for the starter if you purchased it.

 

​​​​​​​I used Bosch RM. If was new, it would have cost $400 something.