big problem with my E39 M5 - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

Josep · 17th June 2004, 16:02

Hi,

I have a 1999 E39 m5 and I am very worried. After the 100.000 kms inspection, the car started to have the problem, never before did it. Sometimes (always in the worst moment) when I turn the engine on after a short period being switched off, the car doesn't start (for example after refuelling). I went to my dealer and they had the car for 2 weeks trying to solve the problem, and they don't find what the hell it is. I am very desperate as I think it should have been repaired after such a long time in the garage.

I would appreciate any kind of information. I need my beast!!!

Thank's in advance. Best regards,

Josep

canysmc · 17th June 2004, 16:41

Does your M5 require the clutch pedal to be pressed all the way in to start?
I think that should be the same as USA M5's.
I've noticed that on occasions if the clutch pedal is not fully pressed in, the car won't start. I've noticed that it seems that I have to press further down on the clutch pedal to start my M5 these days.

Josep · 17th June 2004, 16:44

No, never had to use the clutch pedal to start the car.

Thank's,

Josep

Ashok Arora · 17th June 2004, 16:45

Could be a weak battery. When was the battery last replaced. They have an average life of 3 years. I suggest you charge the battery - if it can't hold the charge then it needs replacing. Get it from a dealer (approx EUR150).

Josep · 17th June 2004, 17:10

yes ashok. That was the first think i thought, but in the bmw dealer tell me that the battery is ok. I am starting to believe in martians and ufo's.
But thank's a lot,

Cor-Jan · 17th June 2004, 18:27

I share your feelings.I'v a very bad starting problem with my bi-turbo.Checked just about everything and not found it yet.When it doesn't start there's no spark and no fuel pressure

mottati · 17th June 2004, 20:14

Is there perhaps a relay that controls the DME on these cars? I remember a failing DME relay being a common problem on older motronic cars, and one that's hard to diagnose, until if fails completly. Anyone know if these parts exist in our cars? (that would certainly account for no fuel and no spark)
Mike

Synergy · 17th June 2004, 20:23

I think we need a little more information, such as, does the car try to turn over, but it just never turns over, or does it actually turn over then immediately dies?

I had a hard time with mine starting after short stops as well, and after I cleaned my MAFS, the problem almost went away completely. Almost, because she still sputters for just a second, but it's much better. I actually need new MAFS, but just don't have the funds to change them right now. New MAFS would completely fix my issues.

Search for instructions on cleaning MAFS on the board. I would recommend using the electronic contact cleaner technique instead of the simple green... I had better results with the contact cleaner.