[huckh2o]

My wife is stuck at work an hour away. Her 2006 330xi won't start when the button is pressed for the second time...although the accessories and radio do turn on when the button is pressed once.

What's in her favor: A small tool kit, the internet and a loving husband with a decent set of tools.

What she's working against: blond hair, parking lot weather, and limited mechanical experience.

Are there things she could try (that have worked for others in the past) that don't require tools?

What are the most common issues that cause these symptoms and can you provide links to diys for these?

Here's what i'm thinking... and how i'm thinking to check

Bad key?.... not sure how to test and we don't have another key
Bad battery?... i'll have her check after work
bad starter motor?... check power supply with multimeter? haven't done this before
bad fuel pump?... check power with multimeter and pressure with gauge? haven't done this before either


Thanks a lot

Todd

[7786]

There's a good chance it's the starter, try this:

[huckh2o]

haha! love that trick! I'll have her give it a try if she can find any tools that can can reach it.

[huckh2o]

Update on the situation:

There was a gallon of distilled water left in her trunk from coolant drain and refill. About a quarter of the water dripped into the battery compartment.

How should I proceed after drying the area?

[huckh2o]

Update on the update: had her unplug IBS sensor and it fired right up... guess we solved that mystery...