Engine Malfunction #2 Cause Found?

[ABMW]

Originally Posted by Lubehead

This post makes me want to ask a question relating to running low on damage. As a former owner of a GMC Duramax diesel, the owner's manual advised against running low on fuel as the fuel is used as a cooling medium for the pump as it is returned back to the tank. Does anyone know if the 35d engine fuel system design would be subject to the same caveat?

There's reference to damage to the vehicle due to running the vehicle low on fuel, but it does not specify what type of fuel. I was of the understanding that most vehicles had done away with this method of fuel pump cooling, but maybe BMW still cools their fuel pump via the fuel itself.

The point is, it happened once when fully fueled, and once when the fuel was low. The only similarity is the fact that both "malfunction" messages took place on a hill of around 10%.

The dealer's been less than helpful, as has BMWNA. The first time it happened, I was stranded for 3-hrs., with BMW Road Side and BMW Concord going back and forth, arguing via an SOS three way call as to how to handle the situation. I was in complete shock at the moronic behavior that took place.

The second time (today), I was 300-feet from the gas station.

The dealer, when pushed, did say that they've been having some issues with the high-pressure fuel pump. Apparently there are two fuel pumps on the 35d? Can anyone confirm?

But, it's an electronic device. It should work or not work. The first time it happened was on Day 3 of ownership with 300-miles on it. So, 3700 trouble free miles later, it's taken place again.

Both issues, were fuel starvation issues of some sort. The point is, what's causing them?

The hills, the fuel pump? Air in the fuel tank from the fuel swashing around when it's on a hill?

The strange thing is, that the first time, when I was on a full tank, the vehicle continued with its malfunction even when I came off the hill and was on flat road. It eventually went away after starting and cutting the ignition over a period of 3-hrs.

Odd...but sounds like BMWNA knows something and they're not saying, from the dealer's response.