No-start Dilemma

[mossyoaks]

I recently got a 95 530i that runs great but has left me stranded now 3 times.

The car is driven about 5 miles to the grocery store. After about 20 minutes of shopping and on my return, when I turn the key- all the dash lights are on- but no starter. Tried the key once every 5 mins until at the 15 min. mark- IGNITION! When I shut the engine off, it will always start back up immediately. And has never failed to start if the engine is cool. Starter does NOT engage at all when the key is turned. All the cluster lights are illuminated and horn blows, stereo works, windows etc. Just no power to starter motor.

So, when this happened again today, I made a point of listening intently and heard a little "snap" sound under the hood driver's side -at around the 15 minute mark. Turned the key and the engine cranked.

Also, to note that when the car is not starting, I have locked and unlocked the car using both the BMW remote and the key in the door. No change.

Thought it might be a failing CPS but it checks out at 540ohms. The engine runs flawlessly smooth on initial start up.

I've only owned this 530 for a few months and the seller never mentioned this problem so I have no idea how long it might have been occurring.

Could the EWS -drive away protection system somehow be the culprit?

[shogun]

Maybe the steering lock cylinder
http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/sh...-about-to-fail
http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/sh...-advice-needed
did you already check the fusible link
http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main/Mainte...sible_link.htm

[632 Regal]

Could the EWS -drive away protection system somehow be the culprit?

Thats what I am thinking. Have not read the security system manual in a long time and don't remember a 15 minute delay but quite possible. Okay just read that manual and nothing about any 15 minute anything. Also read through the owners manual and nothing either. Maybe the anti theft contraption is malfunctioning?

[genphreak]

Thats what I am thinking. Have not read the security system manual in a long time and don't remember a 15 minute delay but quite possible. Okay just read that manual and nothing about any 15 minute anything. Also read through the owners manual and nothing either. Maybe the anti theft contraption is malfunctioning?

... in which case it will be an input that is still on. Check the current draw on close, battery condition. Disconnect anything aftermarket. Esp. any radio, amp or car alarm.

After 15 the car is in full shut-down, maybe something is staying live and somehow inputs to EWS causing it to go active until then.