My BMW 325 Won't Start
by Melanie Fleury
The BMW 325 is part of the 3-series line of BMW cars. It is considered a sport sedan luxury vehicle. When the BMW 325 does not start properly, there can be various reasons, most of which are typical car issues that can affect any type of vehicle. However, over the years of production there have been a couple of recalls and problems that are specific to the 325 that may be the culprit for your car not starting. Diagnosing the problem yourself can help you to decide if it is a do-it-yourself project or needs the help of a professional.
Step 1
Note if your BMW 325 was making any noises or indicating any problem when you last had it running. A knocking noise can indicate that your fuel line and components were failing. The fix can be as easy as a new fuel filter. Add in a extra gallon of gas and attempt to start the BMW again. Although 325s are equipped with a gas gauge, they can sometimes be faulty, indicating there is fuel when there is not. If the 325 was overheating, this could be an indication of a problem with the engine cooling system. Models from 1992-1995 have been issued a recall due to this very problem. Thermostats, water pumps and fan belts can malfunction and cause the car to overheat, leading to it not starting properly. The 2001 model was issued a recall on the fan of the cooling system for not starting when needed.
Step 2
Check the fluid levels in your 325, including oil and transmission fluid. Low or nonexistent fluid can cause your engine to seize and not start properly. Chronically allowing your engine to be low on fluids can cause transmission problems on your BMW. The fluid levels can also indicate a leak in your engine. Transmission fluid can be checked in the 325 by opening the hood and locating the dipstick all the way in the back of the engine. The fluid should be red in color.
Step 3
Turn the key to the "ON' position but do not start the car. If the dashboard lights of your 325 do not come on, it indicates that your battery may be dead or drained. Open the hood and check the connections to the battery for corrosion or a loose connection. For a BMW 325, the battery should last between two and four years minimum. Check lights again, if not working, the battery needs to be replaced or recharged.
Step 4
Turn the key to start the car. A lack of noise indicates a problem with the ignition switch. A clicking noise is a sign of a faulty starter. The starter may need to be replaced.
References
Writer Bio
Melanie Fleury has been writing professionally since 1995. She has written for various educational websites such as Edhelper.com and is the educational consultant at the Knowledge Tree Center for Education. She enjoys creating curriculum for children with various learning styles. Fleury holds a master's degree in education specializing in early childhood from Ashwood University.
