2011 335i Intermittent No Start (SOLVED)

Bob_Loblaw · 07-15-2018, 10:11 AM

Hey all,

I just wanted to create this post as a step by step diagnosis of my intermittent no start issue.

1. The issue: I was having an issue with intermittent starting issues. It started out with a well documented issue where it would take 3-10 tries to turnover but would eventually turnover and start. The fuel pump would prime and the starter solenoid would "click" but it wouldn't turn over. I was quite sure it was not the battery as voltages checked out fine(~12.3V when off, ~14V when running) and once the engine did turn over, it sounded very strong. I did notice that I never had this issue when the engine was cold(engine off for 2 or more hours). I also took note that I never experienced this issue when the ambient temperature was below about 85F.

In short, I would only get this no start condition when I was running quick errands when it was quite hot outside.

2. Diagnosis: I was able to pull the following code:
A0C1 CAS: Output terminal 50 short circuit

This code seemed odd but I did figure out that terminal 50 is related to the starter so I knew I was getting somewhere.

I did some searching(obsessive searching...) and found some other users that had similar but not exactly the same issue as me. One user posted that replacing the ground strap solved their issue so I started there. Unfortunately, that did not solve the issue so I ordered a starter.

3. The Repair: I installed the starter myself using various DIYs and completed it successfully. To anyone afraid to attempt this job, don't be intimidated. It takes a little while but if you're patient and take your time, you will be successful(and save about $1000 at the same time). Just be sure to have the right tools ahead of time.

I replaced the starter about a week and half ago and have zero starting issues since. It has been very hot out in the DC metro area lately so I've given it a good workout. I'm relieved to have fixed this issue and hope that this can be a guide to anyone with a similar issue to shortcut to the real problem.

greg328 · 10-12-2019, 02:37 PM

I've got the same symptoms with my 2011 X5 35i-- same code too.. My 3rd party warranty will cover it---!

Greg
Austin TX

Supermoon · 10-12-2019, 03:10 PM

How many miles?

07-15-2018, 10:11 AM	#1
Bob_Loblaw New Member 9 Rep 5 Posts Drives: 2011 335i Sport Package Join Date: Jul 2018 Location: Alexandria, VA iTrader: (0)	2011 335i Intermittent No Start (SOLVED) Hey all, I just wanted to create this post as a step by step diagnosis of my intermittent no start issue. 1. The issue: I was having an issue with intermittent starting issues. It started out with a well documented issue where it would take 3-10 tries to turnover but would eventually turnover and start. The fuel pump would prime and the starter solenoid would "click" but it wouldn't turn over. I was quite sure it was not the battery as voltages checked out fine(~12.3V when off, ~14V when running) and once the engine did turn over, it sounded very strong. I did notice that I never had this issue when the engine was cold(engine off for 2 or more hours). I also took note that I never experienced this issue when the ambient temperature was below about 85F. In short, I would only get this no start condition when I was running quick errands when it was quite hot outside. 2. Diagnosis: I was able to pull the following code: A0C1 CAS: Output terminal 50 short circuit This code seemed odd but I did figure out that terminal 50 is related to the starter so I knew I was getting somewhere. I did some searching(obsessive searching...) and found some other users that had similar but not exactly the same issue as me. One user posted that replacing the ground strap solved their issue so I started there. Unfortunately, that did not solve the issue so I ordered a starter. 3. The Repair: I installed the starter myself using various DIYs and completed it successfully. To anyone afraid to attempt this job, don't be intimidated. It takes a little while but if you're patient and take your time, you will be successful(and save about $1000 at the same time). Just be sure to have the right tools ahead of time. I replaced the starter about a week and half ago and have zero starting issues since. It has been very hot out in the DC metro area lately so I've given it a good workout. I'm relieved to have fixed this issue and hope that this can be a guide to anyone with a similar issue to shortcut to the real problem.
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10-12-2019, 02:37 PM	#2
greg328 Private First Class 8 Rep 109 Posts Drives: 2011 X5 MSport Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Austin, TX, USA iTrader: (0)	I've got the same symptoms with my 2011 X5 35i-- same code too.. My 3rd party warranty will cover it---! Greg Austin TX
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10-12-2019, 03:10 PM	#3
Supermoon Lieutenant 166 Rep 429 Posts Drives: 2011 e92 335xi Join Date: Aug 2015 Location: Seoul iTrader: (6) Garage List 2011 BMW 335i xDriv ... [10.00]	How many miles? __________________ 2011 E92 335i xDrive Pure Stage 1 \| DV+ & Inlet \| Injen Intake \| M3 Cowl \| ETS 5" FMIC & CP \| Aquamist HFS4 Direct Port \| CSF Radiator \| Wagner Catted DP \| BMW PE \| Apex FL-5 \| Michelin PS4S \| 335is Engine mount \| SDW Monoball thrust arms \| UUC Swaybars & SS Brake lines \| Bilstein B8 \| Dinan Springs & Shock mounts \| Whiteline RSFB \| M3 Rear Control arms \| Manzo Toe arms \| Wavetrac LSD
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