E39 M5 engine wont turn over

[mr sagoo]

Hi Guys, seem to have a slight problemo with my e39 m5, Tried to start it this morning and when the key is turned to the start position all I can hear is a fast clicking sound and all the warning lights are flashing on and off, This happened briefly at the weekend but only briefly and the 3rd time I tried it started and run as normal, It has been used each day since without any problem,Could it be a faulty solenoid or a starter possibly! Just as well I have the TVR in the garage for such emergencies lol, Incidentally the sagaris started 1st time.

[E30M3SE]

I would check for battery faults first.

[john_p]

Definitely check the battery hasn't drained / died. The lights on/off thing seems to happen every time I've flattened a battery.

[stuthemong]

Almost 100% battery.

If your battery is more than 3 years old, I'd just go and buy a new one ALWAYS gives you less trouble in the long term. (although I know they won't be cheap to turn a big v8 over!)

Failing that just try charging it/jumping it, but in my experience after a batt goes that flat it's never the same again and I normally end up buying a new one <2months anyway.

[David111]

Yep classic battery. As soon as they solenoid on the starter tries to turn the engine, battery can't provide the required power and fails, as starter retracts, battery can manage that and so starts to engage again - the clicking noise you got. Had exactly the same thing myself several times.

New battery!

[mr sagoo]

Thanks guys, Is it worth doing a battery test to be sure or should I just bite the bullet and buy one,
any clues how to test if a battery is knackered, also wheres the best place to buy a decent battery.
many thanks in advance.

[Mtomlin]

http://www.thebatteryguys.co.uk/vehicle_filters/17...

I have the same problem with my z3m. went to BMW and got a rediculous quote, bought one from these chaps and service / value for money was awesome in my opinion.

Check out he link.

4 Year warrenty also

[rassi]

Have a look at http://www.mtorque.co.uk/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php...

and then call Euro Parts and get their S5 Bosch battery, 110 Ah and 920 CCA, which is almost identical to the BMW for £89.95 +VAT

[jonsmiff]

i recently fitted one of these , great price and rapid next day delivery!
http://www.performancebatteries.co.uk/battery_info...

[OllyBlox]

If your battery is a BMW one it will have a Magic Eye on it. Have a look at it, the Magic Eye will tell you the state of the battery according to its colour. I can't remember the colours it shows off by heart, but there's a key next to it which should tell you.

[jez355]

I bought a new battery three weeks ago after having simular problem and the same thing has happened again this morning. Help

[E30M3SE]

jez355 said:

I bought a new battery three weeks ago after having simular problem and the same thing has happened again this morning. Help

Either a duff battery or your have a power drain.

[Frik]

E30M3SE said:

jez355 said:

I bought a new battery three weeks ago after having simular problem and the same thing has happened again this morning. Help

Either a duff battery or your have a power drain.

How often do you drive the car?

[rassi]

The final stage resistor ("hedgehog") is known for failing on the E39 and leading to strange behaviour, including draining the battery. Search for a DIY replacement.

[Trellis]

mr sagoo said:

Hi Guys, seem to have a slight problemo with my e39 m5, Tried to start it this morning and when the key is turned to the start position all I can hear is a fast clicking sound and all the warning lights are flashing on and off, This happened briefly at the weekend but only briefly and the 3rd time I tried it started and run as normal, It has been used each day since without any problem,Could it be a faulty solenoid or a starter possibly! Just as well I have the TVR in the garage for such emergencies lol, Incidentally the sagaris started 1st time.

I suggest you get it tested before replacing it. You may well have a drain. The heater control units are known to fail which means during the night your car can be spinning a fan gently for hours and draining it flat.

If you jump straight for a new battery you may find you'll still get a flat in a week and be £100 down.

[jez355]

Frik said:

E30M3SE said:

jez355 said:

I bought a new battery three weeks ago after having simular problem and the same thing has happened again this morning. Help

Either a duff battery or your have a power drain.

How often do you drive the car?[
/quote

I drive about 500 miles a week,and when I parked up I'd just finished a 180 mile oner. I jumped it today so it's running fine. I do have a boot lid sensor problem could that be it?

[AC Motors]

Halfords HB019 £99.99 (June 2008) if you need it.

Edited by AC Motors on Monday 23 March 11:45

[Frik]

Or £65 with a trade card. I wouldn't shop at Halfords without one.

[AC Motors]

Do you have to prove you're in the trade to get a trade card or do do you just need to be 'creative'.

[neiljohnson]

All i did was tell them i worked for a garage and i got the card although i have heard they ask for a payslip to prove it. Probably be ok if you go in there wearing overalls