Hi all

I have a 1994 850 estate. I have had the cam sensor replaced recently after a number of misfires on hills.

The car has been fine until just recently. I drove 10 miles and parked up when i came out the car turned over and over and would not start. I was about to give up when suddenly the car started and ticked over as normal no warning lights etc. I drove a further 10 miles to the garage and filled up with fuel. When i came back into the car again it just spun over without starting. Then suddenly again did. This morning i have gone out to the car and it starts no problem so far. Im now feeling nervy about going distance because this might signify something ominous in waiting

Can any one give me some words to the wise as to where to go next


Cheers

Thunderz2000

 

The most common problem with intermittant starting issues is the fuel pump relay.

 

What he said.

One way to tell would be when it doesn't start try taking the cap off the schrader valve on the end of the fuel rail . It's above the throttle body at the end of the silver cover over the injectors. If you press it in and you only get a dribble it's likely the relay isn't turning the pump on to pressurize the fuel system. Be careful when you press that valve in because it could also have around 40psi of fuel spurt out too !! It's handy to have a rag in one hand to catch the bit of fuel that will come out either way and safety glasses aren't a bad idea either.

Also when you try to start it leave the door open or window down and see if when you first turn the key to "ON" you can hear the pump "buzz" for a couple seconds.
No Buzz, likely it's the relay acting up on you.

I don't have the throttle cable cover installed on mine. I found a picture but it looks like you need to pull that cover to get to the schrader valve.