325ic cranks but wont start

[USARVDEAL]

I bought a 92 325ic from auction
I had seen it running before
am not sure if it has the factory security key
but it has a bmw key small round which does not work in doors but make the starter engage.
car will crank but wont start even after changing cap rotor plugs aircleaner see coil spark even sprayed starting fluid in intake....nothing
put 3 gallons of fresh gas in it
usarvdeal@yahoo.com

[USARVDEAL]

I am beginning to think the theft deterrant system got triggered
and is only locking out the fuel pump
wipers and accessories work.
no theft light

[QUASIMOTO]

:google: search!

: popcorn: then tell us how you managed to come up with a solution.

:dunno: did you drive the car home after the auction? or was it delieverd to you without a starting motor? you should consult with a local bmw tech and check out the cars history maintenance, just to see if one even exsits. :stickpoke

:blah: p.s since your car is a 92' its called a 325(IS) not (ic). 325ic are the new bimmers :nono:

[zachgeo]

I have a '92 325i, and I'm not aware of any "security key" -- however, it sounds like you have the valet key, which still allows you to start the engine (it should also work the doors, but not the glove box or trunk), so that's not the issue. Don't know about the security system, as I don't have one, but according to the owner's manual, if you forget the code you can disconnect the battery for 5 minutes, reconnect, turn ignition key to position 1 and an alarm will sound and a 15 minute timer will come on, during which time you can reset the 4-digit code -- sounds whacky to me! If you actually have this screwy system, I guess you can try the foregoing procedure.

Assuming it's not a security thing, start with the basics: Are you getting fuel? Are you getting spark? For the engine to crank and not start, usually one of those is missing. If I read your first post correctly, it sounds as though you are getting spark (although I'm perplexed -- if it's an e36, why do you have a distributor cap and rotor?). If you're not getting fuel, check for faulty fuel pump relay(s) or fuse(s). Might even be a heavily clogged fuel filter or fuel line. Or the fuel pump itself could be burnt out.

If you are getting both fuel and spark, then you may have a sensor problem -- perhaps the crankshaft position sensor.

[USARVDEAL]

Today we sprayed starting fluid into the intake and the engine fired.
So it is a fuel issue.

The monkey wrench is not having the BMW large key. I dont know where the small rounded bmw key came from and it does not work the doors or trunk.

At this point I think BMW has a fuel cutoff security system.

I have a locksmith coming by monday who is keen on BMW keys to cut me one based on vin. Then I will work the key in the doors and trunk.

I will disconnect battery sunday and look for the countdown.

If still not running after locksmith I have two mechanics ready to work on the fuel sytem relays and pump.

Based upon my starting it with the large bmw key a month ago which disappeared at auction I am still thinking BMW Security cutsoff fuel.

[Lois822]

Good luck. I had mine towed the mechanic said no trouble found in the nuetral switch or starter or alternator ect. Engine shows no errors. Mine will work the doors, radio, fan will come on and I had the battery tested. They bypassed the bypass switch and got a slow crank. I was also told it is in anti theft mode.

I had it towed to where I bought it they claim it is the key. I found out my spare belongs to someone else the hard way it does not fit.

I ordered a new set of keys almost $200.00 I will have a fit if it is not the key. The dealer is 45 miles away and I will be on tow number 3

[Lois822]

I was told if the key is going bad it will do this. I did try to reset it by putting it in the door and turn twice to the right it will go much further over the 2nd time. Then try to start the car. It did not work for me but supposably you can reprogram it.

The dealer said if the car feels it is being stolen it will shut down. My key comes in Tues I should have an answer by wednesday.

The dealer said it has to be programmed at the dealer. I told this guy this information where I bought if from he claims he has all the stuff and can redo it.