Problem of the Day: No Start. WTF?

[BimmerM3inGA]

So if you've seen any of my other posts, you'll know that last summer I bought a 2002 X5 4.6is that was supposed to be in excellent condition and to serve as my daily driver. However, it has quite literally been one problem after another and I've barely been able to put 2,000 miles on it because of all the problems.

Well, I guess I got cocky because I've been driving it to work once a week thinking that it was actually going to be reliable enough to, you know, drive to work.

My two-week lucky streak ended today. I got in it to head out and it won't start. Everything lights up and switches on when I turn on the key, but nothing happens when I turn it to the start position. I mean nothing. There is no click, the lights don't dim. Nothing happens.

It has a brand new battery - just installed it last weekend. Is the PNP switch known to be problematic in these cars? I've never had a problem with one in a BMW before. But this car has never disappointed when it comes to having unusual (and common) problems. So I can't rule out that possibility.

I really do need to use it over the weekend, so I need to get this sorted asap. Does anyone have a suggestion that I could try? Is there a reliable troubleshooting routine that would help narrow down the possibilities?

On a side note, I sold my 740i M Sport last night because I thought I finally has this POS running reliably and didn't need it as a backup vehicle. I think that once I figure whatever the hell is wrong with it this time, I'm going to sell this one and look for another E39 Touring. But I won't try to sell it here!