2005 X5 4.4 won't crank over sometimes
 

My 2005 X5 4.4 with 176,000 miles would occasionally not crank when key was in cranking position. When I would remove the key and try again it would work. Some times I would have to do this several times before it would crank. After one time of having to do this about 12 times before cranking, I replaced the ignition switch with a Febi brand. All was fine for a while, but then it happened again where I had to turn the key 2x before cranking, so I replaced the starter with a rebuilt unit from my local parts store. The new starter spins the motor much faster, and worked fine for a few weeks, but last night it wouldn't start after many attempts and had to have the car towed home. Tried it this morning and it started on second attempt, cranked fast like new.
Anyone have a similar issue? Any ideas? Thanks.

Do you have another key to try? (Possible immobiliser problem.)

With N62 it can also be the relays controlling convenient start.

https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e...-relay/reoNfal

Very common symptom for failing ignition switch


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Didn't he already renew it?

new doesn't mean fixed. When you have symptoms that indicate a primary fault, you have to pretend you didn't fix it already. Countless times I've replaced something twice.

Indeed. I would question what the OP used for a replacement. If from the dealer then I would assume it would be good. If aftermarket, all bets are off. :dunno:

He mentioned Febi which is probably OEM and good going but still doesn't mean it didn't break. The primary symptom of bad switch is the exact symptoms described above.

I know but exactly same symptoms if key is randomly not recognised or the starter relay inside EWS module is failing.

My guess would also be the EWS antenna or key itself. As mentioned try your other key. :thumbup:

Secondary failures that will produce these symptoms:

EWS antenna (key side or column)

Crank position sensor.

Do you any sense of power stoke?