x5 won't start (fuel problems?)
 

Hope you guys can help me. I left my 2000 x5 for a while, i guess around five months without turning it on (i know i know, what was i thinking...). When I was about to use it again, i had to recharge the battery because it had been sitting a while. Now i try to turn the x5 on and it only sounds like its cranking but it never actually turns on. I was told to replace the fuel pump, which i did, but still nothing. The fuel pump doesn't sound like it's working, but i'm sure it's not the fuel pump now but something else. i also replace the fuel pump relay, but nothing. i can't wait to drive it again... any help would be appreciated, i know you guys are the best. also somebody told me i would probably have to reprogram the key to the x5, but i just tried it and doesn't seem to work. just cranks and cranks but nothing.

Time for back to basics. An engine only needs a few things to start:
- Cranking (turning over) at a reasonable speed
- Compression
- Fuel (in the correct air/fuel ratio)
- Spark (at the right time)

If it is cranking at a reasonable speed, great. Compression doesn't tend to disappear with parking for five months, so let's put that at the end of the list. Statistically, most no-start problems are electrical, so that is next. After that, check on fuel delivery. You started with at the pump, but that is the start of the flow. You need to check fuel at the injectors, at the end of the line.

Or you could go and get a mechanic's diagnosis, and have the codes read, which would likely direct you to the right system. There is nothing to be gained, and everything to lose, by randomly replacing things in an effort to hit the jackpot and find the right one.

thanks for your response. i forced to think there is not current going to the fuel pump, which i'm assuming might be a relay or that i have to re-program x5. i disconnected the fuel line that goes to the engine, and no fuel comes out. i think i should just go to a mechanic, but i'm hoping that won't be needed with you guy's help...