The engine does not turn over on first try but on second try it starts up, no problem, why?

CHRISTOPHER SA

MEMBER
2006 BMW 330CI
3.3L
6 CYL
2WD
100,000 MILES

My friend's car has a strange problem. When she turns the key, the engine doesn't turn over, but it does make a weird whining noise. It doesn't even click (as though the starter is trying but is having a problem). She then turns off the car and then tries starting it again immediately and it starts right up without issue and runs smoothly.

I thought the starter may be faulty but any ideas?

4 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,375 POSTS

Hi,

Based on your description, it sounds like the Bendix on the starter is failing. The Bendix is what engages the starter motor drive gear with the engine flex plate to turn the engine.

When you hear the noise, does it sound like a motor spinning only? Is it possible for you to record and upload it for me to hear? I should be able to tell by hearing it if that is the issue.

Regardless, I attached the directions below for replacing the starter motor. If you decide to replace it, make sure the battery is disconnected prior to starting the procedure.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Tuesday, April 30th, 2024 AT 6:58 PM

CHRISTOPHER SA

MEMBER
209 POSTS

Hi Joe,
Sorry for the late reply. Thanks for all the info. Instead of doing the audio my friend has decided to just go ahead and get a new starter motor. I will let you know how it is when it has been done.

One quick question.

From which position does one remove the starter motor? From underneath the vehicle?

I have watched YouTube videos and all of them show removing a whole heap of stuff from the top of the engine like the inlet manifold and tons of hoses, sensors, fuel lines, etc. Your instructions have very few steps in comparison so just asking whether this is done from underneath.

Thanks again.

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Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 AT 11:41 PM

CHRISTOPHER SA

MEMBER
209 POSTS

Well, I jumped the gun when I wrote the last message. My friend sent me the audio just to be sure! I have attached them. The first one is the car not starting (7 secs) and the second one is the car starting a 4 seconds later when the key is turned again. My friend says the car starts fine 'most times'.

When I met her for the first time she showed me this problem and it happened right off the bat (not starting, then starting), so I suspect it happens more often than not.

Listening to the fist video again, the car does turn over for a second then stops and a whine occurs, as though the bendix has stopped working (retracts before the engine gets to start).

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Friday, May 3rd, 2024 AT 12:42 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,375 POSTS

Hi:

It sounds odd for sure. My first suspect is the starter motor. As far as replacing it, there is a support under the vehicle that needs to be removed.

I attached that information below for you. Let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below

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