E30 325 non starting

[skidz 197]

My E30 325 road car has developed a bad habit of not starting, but only when it is at the most embarrassing time to choose to do so.

It starts fine cold - no problem. I can drive it to work, starts fine in the morning, starts fine after work.

It starts hot - no problem - ie, within 5 mnutes of switching off.

But stop for 30 min to 3 hours, ie time for a coffee or lunch, it will not restart. The engine does not turn over - it just goes click. So I am thinking either starter solenoid, or perhaps the ignition switch? I have checked all earth straps, under the bonnet and in the boot, all seem fine.

Thoughts?

[M M 250]

I have this same issue on my e28 except it doesn't click. I've been told the starter trigger wire when old builds resistance when it's hot and won't trigger the starter. The easiest way to get it going is to use a wire to jump the pin in the diagnostic port for the starter trigger to the battery. Key needs to be on with ignition switched on.

[skidz 197]

I have this same issue on my e28 except it doesn't click. I've been told the starter trigger wire when old builds resistance when it's hot and won't trigger the starter. The easiest way to get it going is to use a wire to jump the pin in the diagnostic port for the starter trigger to the battery. Key needs to be on with ignition switched on.

I heard you could do that - which two pins?

[M M 250]

On my e28 it's pin 11, the black/yellow wire. I just hold one end of wire in the pin and the other end to the battery. Worked every time that the key didn't. You do get some funny looks though, haha.

[will 169]

pins 11 and 14.

[Mr Vapour 76]

The full fix is to add a relay under the bonnet. The start wire will switch the relay will feed sweet clean fresh 12v direct from the battery.

[skidz 197]

The full fix is to add a relay under the bonnet. The start wire will switch the relay will feed sweet clean fresh 12v direct from the battery.

OK, thanks, guys