SO after a week sitting, without transmission, this morning I went to move it for street cleaning, that didn't go well. Turns out the battery is dead. SO I go to jump it. THAT doesn't go well. AAA rolls by and I flag them down to try to jump it and THAT doesn't go well. SO I try a third time with a brand new BIMMER fresh off a successful jump up the street and that doesn't go well either. She turns over but she doesn't start. No clicking either. Guy told me I might have to take it to the shop. He was gifted in the art of observation. Looks like I'm towing it. Any insights into this juicy development?

 

So, motor spins but doesn't start?

850 lawnmower syndrome. Very common.

Takes plugs out, pour maybe teaspoon of oil into each cylinder, put plugs back in, and the car should start.

 

I got it started, took 20 minutes to get enough charge to crank it but it started. Now just the transmission... I'm considering submitting it to the cash for clunkers program we have in California - it's due for smog and I doubt it will pass.

 

why would you suspect it won't pass emissions? Assuming you don't have any check engine codes, no rough idling etc you'd be surprised. Rough start up can be a need for new wires/plugs or a fuel pressure issue (relay/pump/regulator).

 

Couple reasons, for one, the last time I smogged it was about a year ago and it barely passed - was right on the line for the max units of emission. Granted I've since had the oil changed, changed the fluids, etc. But it's also mostly been sitting or driven slowly in traffic, which both contribute to high emissions. I want this program because a new transmission will cost upwards of 2k and after all the problems I've had with this car and the risk of something ELSE happening post-op I'm resigned to try to get into a newer vehicle. IF anyone has a reason to commit to my old baby, she's a 96 850 GLT wagon, I'm all ears - I love this car, it's a workhorse and it has a lot of sentimental value to me as well. I just think that with everything it needs - new power steering, new rear shock, ac lines, alignment, brakes, TRANSMISSION, etc. I'm looking at a total investment of about $6-7k, which is 4-5 times what the resale value is. Any thoughts?

 

Get rid of it.