Automatic transmission or manual transmission? Manual transmission has an interlock that prevents you from starting the car unless you push in the clutch pedal. Could be something in that circuit.

 

Same thing happen to me and it turned out being the starter. I got the run around and misdiagnosis from the dealer pointing to the battery and a software update. It worked fine for a couple of days then same problem. Ended up getting a battery for free and they installed the starter as a courtesy. Paid nothing in the end. But I would do what was suggested and tap the starter.

 

Any codes? Can you use INPA to read CAS module? I just had that happen to me. Used INPA and got a Starter malfunction code from the CAS module, changed the starter et voilá! That being said, a no crank no start can be a ton of stuff on these cars from battery (even with all light on) VIM, CAS module itself, keys, and a few others. If you search no crank no start on a few BMW forums you'll find a TON of threads about this.

 

Alrighttttt... I think I may have the same issue. However, difference is, before getting to the point of no cranking at all, few times it tried to start and died, then started (like the battery is dying). However, same night, went to a restaurant, and was left stranded when trying to start on my way back. Luckily, I have a stick shift, and there was slop back way, so gave it a little push, started it, and didnt turn it off till get home.

I have hard time admitting that Starter is bad, since its not even clicking. All the cars I had in the past, when starter is bad, you would at least hear some noise coming from it.

Everything else (all lights etc.) work fine. One tip I got was, when trying to charge the battery using front connections, it wouldnt charge. However, when connected in the back directly, it started charging. Thought might be grounding issues, checked the ground connections (one between engine and chases on passenger side, one in the back between battery and chases), but they seem fine.

Going to kick the starter now, however; do you guys think it can still be the starter? If it is, why is it not making any noise (like other cars)?

Also, are there any other grounding connections I can check?

Thanks.

 

Manual transmission may also have a starter interlock relay that won't provide power to the starter unless the clutch pedal is in. Old Maxima I had needed to have that replaced twice in the 15 years I had it.

 

Thanks for the response.

Yeah, that is one possibility, and I tried to slam a few times on the clutch in case it may trigger it. However; it should not give the symptom of engine turning but slow in the beginning...

I also couldnt find a way to bang the starter. I have an idea where it is (between engine and transmission), but couldnt really reach it.

Going to show it to a local electrician tom. I think should be easy to pin point the issue with right tools, and enclosed environment (its getting too cold outside ).

Thanks for the help

 

 

Hello, do you solve the problem?

 

Hi, I have a 2007 525i. I drove the car regularly. No hiccups. The other day I was moving it from the street back into the driveway. Tried to start. No crank, no start. Check battery, was fair but decided to get a new one. Everythin I read stated that probably the starter motor. Replace through FCP Euro with a new Bosch. Now, new bttry, new starter, same issue. Had a buddy test the old starter and it was fine. I'm lost. I've checked all connections, key fobs, fuses. Please advise