More and more frequent starting problem. Need help
 

I bought my 2000 4.4 in Febuary and this problem only occured maybe 2-3 times a month but recently it's been happening about 2 times daily! I know that the X is know for this problem but I'm getting kinda worried when it sometimes happens twice in a row. I'm nervous that I might get stuck.

I'm having the typical problem with the engine not doing anything when I turn the key. Everything is normal apon start-up, ie. electronics... but no turning over of the starter. I usually turn the key back wait afew seconds and it fires right up. Once the engine is running everything is normal. I have no other issues other then the start-up. I searched on here and only found that the computer needs to boot up before start-up. And that you should wait second or two before starting. I've been doing that the past few days and it still has the problem.

Do anyone have any insight as to what the problem might be or how the vehicle proceeds through start-up? I don't believe that there is a dead spot in the starter because the engine never partially starts. And doesn't need to be rocked to make the X start. I'm hesitant to bring it to a dealer because I don't think it would do it once I got it there. I might wait until it's more frequent. Thanks in advance for any help on the subject Rob

I'm having the same problem in my 02 4.4, I was going to take it in this weak b/c I'm probably due for a new battery?

Please let me know what they find out, Thanks Rob!!

someone oughta look into an extendedn warranty just incase...;)

They have had a few issues with this and should be able to look up the service bullitens on it. I know one problem was with the instrument cluster needing to be replaced and also they have had starter motor issues.
My 2001 starter was replaced a couple of weeks ago for the same intermitant problem and has been good since.

I had similar issue last Friday, and I took it in to a dealer service center. It does seem like a battery problem at first, but it turned out to be a bad alternator, which I got them to replaced under warranty and they did gave the warranty to me as a one time good will gesture.

I bought my X5 last October pre-owned certified and this was the first issue I have with the X5. My X5 is a 2002 3.0 model with slightly more than 42K on it. Now I have more than 53K, and this problem showed up.

Hope this helps...

I just drove the X this morning and sure enough first try nothing. Second try fires right up! I think I'm more confused the ever. It could be a starter, alternator, instrument cluster, or battery. I think I should make a appointment at the $tealer. Any idea what it might cost just to have them trouble shoot it but do no repair work? I'm a pretty hands on kinda guy. I'm sure I can handle any of the above mentioned repairs. I just replaced my radiator and drive belts without a problem. TIA Rob

are u gving it a few seconds before firing it up?
if u jump in, insert the key and try to fire it right
up, i believe that the computers inside don't have
enough time to authenticate the key. at least,
that's what i've notice when i do this.

try this - after inserting the key, turn it one notch
and wait a second. turn it to the 2nd notch and
wait a second. then, finally turn it to start.

I've only been waiting a few second in the position just before turning it over. I will try waiting afew seconds in every position, but it doesn't seem right if I have to wait that long to start it?

I think I will start with a new battery first. Seems to be the least expensive option. How can you tell if the battery is original to the X and not a newer BMW battery. TIA Rob

Try the other key and see if you have the same problem- maybe an issue with the key electronics itself.