BMW Shut Off While Driving & Won’t Start | How You Can Fix!
BMW cars are famous for their superior performance, stunning appearance, and outstanding comfort. But despite being a well-known and well-liked brand, it has run into issues. “Engine shuts off while driving and wont turn on” is one such issue.
The most common reasons for BMW engines to shut off while driving includes low or no fuel, a broken alternator, a dead battery, an electrical system that isn’t working properly, a malfunctioning ignition switch, a broken timing belt, etc. Don’t be afraid of this huge list because most issues can be easily solved.
This article will discuss these issues and their quick solutions in detail. So, to overcome this type of situation, this blog post will help you a lot.
Reasons Behind BMW Shut Off While Driving And won’t Start Issue.
It’s risky to have your vehicle turned off while you’re driving. There are several causes of this problem. The main reasons for a car shutting off while you’re driving will be discussed in this section.
In a short while, we’ll also go over what you ought to do if your BMW does stop functioning while you’re on the road.
Faulty Alternator
Simply put, an alternator maintains the battery power required for your car’s ignition and the operation of electrical components like the radio and headlights.
You won’t be able to power your vehicle if the alternator is damaged. This may develop gradually as time passes.
Here are a few indicators of a faulty alternator:
- The battery won’t charge properly and will be discharged very soon.
- Lights that are too dim or bright.
- You will need to work on starting issues or stalling a lot.
- A burnt rubber or wires smell will come out from the vehicle engine.
- You will notice whimpering or growling sounds.
- Dash-mounted battery-warning light.
In this case, the best remedy is to replace the defective alternator. The price of an alternator replacement might range from $150 to $300.
Empty or extremely low fuel
Although it may seem absurd, a lot of individuals experience this. While driving, your car will turn off if it runs out of fuel. The main causes of this are laziness or underestimating the gasoline capacity.
Therefore, ensure your BMW has enough fuel before beginning a long or short journey.
Read Also: How Much Does a BMW Oil Pan Gasket Replacement Cost?
Low voltage or dead battery
Another terrible thing that could happen while you’re driving is the battery in your car dying. It frequently happens to almost all users.
You may examine the condition of the automobile battery with a multimeter. If the battery voltage falls below 11.7 volts, it has less than 25 percent of its overall charge and must be recharged.
Read Also: Battery Discharge Increased In BMW? (7 Reasons Why)
Faulty fuse
Most critical automotive systems, including the engine management system, are controlled by fuses. They are mainly kept in the fuse box inside the engine block.
The automobile may come to a complete halt if any fuses are damaged. If you discover that this is the cause of the engine not starting, identify and replace the blown fuses.
Faulty ignition switch
This ignition switch is the main point of entry for the electricity from the battery into the ignition. Tiny metal pieces inside the switch may corrode, rust, and lose contact over time.
This may lead to the sudden stop of your automobile while you’re traveling. Replacing it is the only solution in this situation.
Malfunctioning engine timing belt
A BMW vehicle without a proper timing belt cannot spin or transmit power to the wheels, even if all other parts of the engine are in good condition.
If the timing belt somehow breaks down, your car will abruptly stop while you’re driving and stop starting altogether.
Only an expert can correctly fix a damaged timing belt. You must thus drive your car to the closest repair facility in this circumstance.
Faulty fuel pump
Your fuel pump delivers the gasoline for your engine. This pump may get blocked or unclean over time. In this situation, the engine will stop while driving and won’t be able to start again.
Unfortunately, there is no way to bypass a malfunctioning fuel pump; you must either repair it or buy a brand-new one.
Read Also: How To Deal With BMW Yellow Brake Light? [Diagnosis & Fix]
Is It Possible To Resolve This Problem Without A Technician’s Assistance?
Yes, most of the time, it’s possible, but not always. While some issues can be solved without professional help, like changing fuses, others do.
Usually, it is difficult to fix a broken engine, alternator, timing belt, transmission system, etc., on your own.
A skilled BMW mechanic should only attempt those repairs. The engines of BMWs are complicated and challenging to understand.
To learn how to fix them, technicians undergo specific training. Therefore, leave it up to a professional, whatever the problem with your BMW.
Read Also: 5 Reasons For BMW Left Brake Lamp Malfunction | Fix Now!
What Precautions Should You Take To Get Rid Of This Type Of Issue?
You may face any kind of problem at any time. But, if you take some precautions, you can save yourself from serious issues.
Here are some of them:
- Ensure you have sufficient fuel.
- Change the battery, engine oil, and coolant after a specific period.
- Check the engine gaskets and rubber hoses.
- Regularly inspect air filters and spark plugs.
- Take immediate action for any minor issues.
- Have your vehicle checked regularly by an expert mechanic.
Read Also: What Causes DBC to Malfunction on BMW? [Diagnosis & Fix]
FAQs
After going through this article, you might still have some questions. We tried our best to answer the most often-asked questions in this part.
How Frequently Should A BMW Be Serviced?
Engine oil, filters, and coolant should be changed annually or every 10,000 kilometers. Check and replace gasoline filters after 20,000 miles or every two years. And change brake fluid at intervals of 30,000 kilometers or three years.
What Is The Cost Of Servicing A BMW Engine?
Every 10,000 miles, you should budget between $150 and $400 for maintenance. But, a significant service might cost up to $2,000 or more. However, the living area and parts availability might change this pricing range.
Why Is My BMW Losing Its Power?
The main reason behind this is the dirty fuel injector. The tiny passageways of the fuel injector can be blocked with dust or particles, which restricts the fuel supply, slowing down the engine.
Can Stalling Harm A BMW Engine?
No. It is essential to remember that halting is frequently a minor issue. And under typical conditions, this won’t harm the engine. However, if it isn’t fixed for a while, it might impact other parts of the car.
Read Also: How To Fix A Melting BMW Door Handle?(Causes Explained)
Conclusion
Regular BMW maintenance is challenging to establish, much like other useful routines. Most people postpone routine car maintenance because it is inconvenient, time-consuming, and potentially stressful.
You might be surprised to learn that putting off maintenance or performing it cheaply can reduce your car’s lifespan by several years.
BMW owners view their cars as a treasure, a source of pride, and a necessary component. And maintaining your car as much as possible helps you avoid small or big problems. Your safety and your car’s safety will be guaranteed by doing so.
