Expert: Don Berlan - 7/11/2006

Question
Hi, I have an 1997 BMW 528i with auto trans.  When I try to start the car, everything seems to work right but it does not turn over.  It just all of a sudden happened with no indicative symptoms leading to it.  The battery seems to be fully charged and the starter will turn over if I jump it at the starter, but does absolutely nothing when turning the key.  It almost seems like a security system/theft deterent malfunction.  I tried using 2 different keys to no avail.  Help?  Thanks,  Patrick

Answer
By using two different keys and being able to turn the motor over at the starter and the vehicle not starting I think I would look at the ignition switch to see if it is working.By dis assembling the column cover you can check the wiring to the switch.Check for power and for power at the solenoid wire when the key is turned on.It sounds like a mechanical problem rather than an alarm problem.