Non starter

[Silverback355]

Hi guys.
So I've got a wee problem with the Z4. I went to start it earlier today. The ignition key turns, I've got lights on the dash but the car won't turn over. I can't hear the fuel pump. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[enuff_zed]

Starter motor?
What engine is it?
You may be able to reach the starter with a long bar and give it a bit of 'percussive adjustment' while someone turns the key.
However, if it does turn out to be that then it's a short term answer and you'll be needing a new one soon.

 

[paddy wright]

If you can bump start (if you have a manual) then it’s the starter. If not it’s likely to be electrical- most likely the battery.

 

[Silverback355]

Hi guys, thanks for your replies. It's the little 2.0ltr engine. I thought it might be the fuel pump, but yeah I'm not hearing the click off the solenoid on the starter motor. I'll take a bar with me tomorrow. I had to abandon ship and leave the old girl . Thanks.

 

[Barty]

Sounds like a potential battery issue; lights on the dash draw very little power, but the starter by contrast takes the most. Give it a health check (how old is the battery?) before anything else I’d say

 

[Silverback355]

Hi Barry I wouldn't know how old the battery is. I'll give it a check tomorrow when I go and try and pick it up. I've got my jump leads and a knocking stick for the starter motor. .!!

 

[TOMGREEN413]

Good luck my guess would be battery or starter motor, have you tried switching on ALL the accessories to see if they all run at once? And what voltage at the battery under load conditions? Might give some clue

 

[Rockhopper]

Turn the headlights on then try and start it. If the lights stay bright then its likely the starter has died.

 

[TOMGREEN413]

Brilliant idea...I'll remember that one :drool:

 

[Silverback355]

I'll give it a go with all the lights and stuff. Thanks guys.

 

[TOMGREEN413]

:crazydude:

 

[Silverback355]

Hi guys I'm sat waiting for the AA to arrive. Have you seen where the starter motor is located. ? Under the manifold on the right hand side of the engine.!!They could not have put it in a more awkward position.!! So I've tried hitting the flaming thing but I don't think I've got enough room to swing. Let's hope the recovery guy knows what he's doing.

 

[TOMGREEN413]

Yes, a really stupid location. Hopefully they will, be with you soon.

 

[colb]

My E85 2.5 Starter motor failed without any advance warning, fine one day then next day nothing, hit it with a hammer and it came back to life, after a few test starts it packed up for good. Fitted a replacement from Carparts4less and thats resolved it. Quite simple to change it out bolts at the rear after disconnecting the battery and disconnecting the starter motor connections.

 

[enuff_zed]

Hi guys I'm sat waiting for the AA to arrive. Have you seen where the starter motor is located. ? Under the manifold on the right hand side of the engine.!!They could not have put it in a more awkward position.!! So I've tried hitting the flaming thing but I don't think I've got enough room to swing. Let's hope the recovery guy knows what he's doing.

OP, what was the outcome?

 

[TOMGREEN413]

The suspense is killing me........

 

[Silverback355]

Hi guys, thanks for all your info and advice. I got bump started last night by the AA and finally got home. I've ordered a new starter motor from Autodoc. £95 with delivery. Now for the challenge of removing the inlet manifold plus everything else in my way.

 

[enuff_zed]

Hi guys, thanks for all your info and advice. I got bump started last night by the AA and finally got home. I've ordered a new starter motor from Autodoc. £95 with delivery. Now for the challenge of removing the inlet manifold plus everything else in my way.

I just looked that up on NewTis.
Makes me glad I have an M54 !!!!

 

[Silverback355]

I've been watching a couple of YouTube videos but they mainly cover the 6 cylinder engines that seem to have easier access.!! Seems strange with it being a big whole lump of an engine. I'll manage.

 

[TOMGREEN413]

Good luck