anyone have a problem with there starter
 

i just got my03 x5 4.6is and the starter went want to know if this is a common problem. my boys 5 series has like an extended crank for some resone is this common

A couple times a year my 02 4.4 will have an extended cranking issue. Like the starter is just not catching. If I turn the key back and then try again it typically works fine.

Dont know about the extended crank bit, but my starter on my '01 4.4 gets 'stuck' (ie 'click' and nothing) from time to time. And like FSETH I just turn the key off and back to start again and the starter turns without issue.

Its usually the Solenoid switch on top of the starter!Simple and cheap to fix ,if you can do it yourself.Just buy a set of brushes for it.
In an emergency and if it doesnt crank at all,its useful to have a long metal bar that you can tap the solenoid switch with.Not essential, But its quicker if you have someone inside the car cranking the engine and someone else tapping the Solenoid at the same time.

Thanks, I'll look into it. :D Any pointers as to its whereabouts?

Oldest trick in the book! ;) :thumbup:

Old post sorry to resurrect, I had this too prior to swapping out my OEM 9 year old battery, a year later I had it with the new battery too....still doesnt sound right when I crank....its laboured, and am still investigating...will update when i get results