Check the obvious things first (archive)

I have a 93 325is and i am having engine problems. The car was running fine all day, and about 2 hours after i had been driving, i tried starting it. It turned over for about 1.5 seconds, and then shut off. I tried it numerous times, and it just keeps doing the same thing. I tried starting it and reving it up a little, it keeps the motor going if i rev it, but it backfired, and sounded horrible. When i was driving the car previously i didnt notice any problems, or hear anything. Does anyone know what the problem could be, or the first thing to look for. Thanks alot ~ Josh

Hi I've got a 325i. I would first check for anything obvious - plug leads all attached? fuel not leaking anywhere - does it smell of fuel. Providing all this checks out ok then I would suggest you take it to a mechanic who knows these motors very well. My understanding is that the 325i motor is generally a low maintenence reliable motor. Has it done more than 100,000 miles? If so well you could expect maybe some major things to let go. Anyway take it to a good service place (for diagnosis I would recommend a BMW Dealer - once diagnosed you could shop around or quotes - but dont expect anything to be cheap - there are a number of BMW engine rebuilders in the US you may want to check out cost of a rebuilt motor whilst you are at it - if there is something major wrong of course!) Unless you are an experienced mechanic I would not try to repair something internal.

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