XSeries-forum

Hi all
I hope I someone on the forum can shed some light on my intermittent starting fault.
It first occurred back in August after the car was standing for some 2 weeks.
The fault occurs as follows:
• Key fob is engaged, no lights on dash show, and nothing on the start button
• Take your foot off the brake pedal and replace again, and the dash boots up and start as you would  expect without any noticeable labour or delay to the procedure IE glow plug lag

This has happened a number of times after its stood for anything over 3 days of none use. It always starts on the second attempt without any labour of the starter motor, or any significant signs that the battery is in need of a charge. IE doors not unlocking, radio not tuned lights not on or any other usual signs of battery ware.
After visiting the main dealer for diagnosis and repair, they have informed me that whilst they managed to replicate the fault they couldn't diagnose it let alone repair it.
What now, I asked of them? our technician will be in touch! Alas I am still waiting!! >:(
My initial thoughts were it might be a switch problem relating to the immobiliser, or perhaps even a fault on the brake pedal. But my invoice from the dealer shows amongst other things a battery charge had been done.
I've heard that,  whilst the battery is covered under the warranty, for some reason the dealers don't like to shell out for a replacement .
Your views or comments on this would be greatly appreciated, and will be instrumental in my next sortie with the dealer.

Many thanks
Steve ::)

I had to have a new battery earlier in year after getting in car on several occasions and radio settings,heater settings and computer settings were resetting them self's to zero's (if you no what i mean). Took it in to be looked at and said fit me one if needed. They rang later in day to confirm battery needed replacing which i was ok with as it still had original battery on which was almost 6 years old.!
Picked up car and got out wallet to pay and was told it was free under there auc warranty which came with the car when i bought it from them, so i was very happy, so i would have to disagree with you on that.
If you have same auc warranty, its covered and cost go back to BMW i was told.

Thanks for the information.
Yes Ive got the AUC warranty, and yes I am aware it's covered. I'm summoned to the dealers next week to have my earth strap checked. i'm going to get an independent check done on the battery, before I go back to the dealers.
I think its the battery, I can't understand why, on a 6 year old original battery they won't accept that this is the fault, and simply change it.

It may be Mondial want proof it's the battery.  If the Dealer can't get the right error codes on test then Mondial being an insurer won't play!

Well I can report that after some considerable investigation over the past of 4 weeks, in an effort to both replicate, and diagnose the fault. A worn out battery was diagnosed, and a genuine replacement unit was fitted under warranty.

Good result

Excellent result, but what a hassle getting there!  Glad it's finally behind you. 

cool  :xmasgrin: