Help! X5 starts then stalls

tMac · #1 03-21-2010, 12:49 PM

Help! My 2003 X5 3.0 has been driving well through the years with hardly any problems. Yesterday, it started but after just 3-5 seconds the engine stalled, which has never happened before. I tried this a few more times with the same result. I plugged in OBD II but no errror codes show. This morning but while I can hear the starter firing, the engine would now not even start.

The only "odd" thing I recall doing before the last time I drove the X5 was accidentally hittting the steering adjust lever while driving. I've never had stalling problems with my X5, and the dash and lights are working. I still have not replaced the original batteries, but given the electricals seem to be working just fine, am doubting whether this is the issue.

Appreciate any thoughts from this forum.

youry · #2 03-21-2010, 01:18 PM

I think you have a fuel problem. either a fuel filter clogged or a fuel pump that doesn't do the job. any other reason I might think of comes with an error code but you say there are no codes. I know it must sound stupid, but do you have gas in the tank?
I would try to disconnect the battery for 20-30 minutes. The electronics reset and you might get lucky

tMac · #3 03-21-2010, 01:21 PM

Youry--thanks, I'll try the battery reset, and see how that goes. Have a full tank of gas--now wondering if the costco gas has something to do with it--not something I usually fill my tank with...

petener999 · #4 03-21-2010, 01:25 PM

Battery is the first thing you should look at first.. My car had the same issue and replaced the new battery.. Did you try to jump start your car?

youry · #5 03-21-2010, 01:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by petener999

Battery is the first thing you should look at first.. My car had the same issue and replaced the new battery.. Did you try to jump start your car?

if the battery is discharged I would be inclined to think the alternator is the culprit (it doesn't do its job recharging, hence the start and the stall) though a faulty alternator should come with a code

tMac · #6 03-21-2010, 02:11 PM

Ok--the jump start did the trick, so looks like it is the battery afterall. A bit embarrassed to have panicked on this one...:-} I guess that's what I get for being pampered by dealer-warranty and a problem-free X5 all these years....

At 85K miles on it and just out of the extended warranty, looks like I will have to brush on on the basics again... Thanks to all for the Troubleshooting 101...now off to buy some batteries...