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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/F30/F31 (2012-2019)/why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) make a whirring noise when starting

why does my BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) make a whirring noise when starting

BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
449 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The BMW 3 Series F30/F31 (2012-2019) is experiencing a whirring noise during the starting process, indicating a potential issue with the starter motor or associated components.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:** Ensure all electrical systems are powered down.

Symptoms

  • •Whirring noise when the ignition is engaged
  • •Engine cranks slowly or fails to start
  • •Possible clicking sound accompanying the whirring
  • •Dashboard lights dimming during start attempt
  • •No response from the starter motor after several attempts

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system for any error codes related to the starting system.
  2. 2Inspect the battery voltage using a multimeter to check for adequate charge (should be around 12.6 volts).
  3. 3Check battery connections for corrosion or looseness.
  4. 4Test the starter motor operation by applying direct power to it from the battery.
  5. 5Inspect the ignition switch for proper operation.
  6. 6Examine the starter relay for functionality.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shock.

2. Battery Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the battery cover (if applicable).
    • Clean battery terminals using a wire brush.
    • Tighten connections to ensure a solid connection.
  • Tools Required: Wire brush, socket set.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure all electrical systems are powered down.

3. Starter Motor Replacement

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the engine cover if necessary for access.
    • Disconnect the wiring harness from the starter motor.
    • Unbolt the starter motor from its mount (usually requires a socket wrench).
    • Remove the starter motor from the vehicle.
    • Install the new starter motor by reversing the removal steps.
  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench.
  • Safety Warnings: Be cautious of sharp edges and moving parts.

4. Testing the New Starter

  • Sub-steps:
    • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
    • Start the vehicle to test the new starter.
    • Listen for any abnormal sounds during the starting process.
  • Tools Required: None.
  • Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is in neutral or park before starting.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Safety Warnings:** Ensure all electrical systems are powered down.

Parts Required

  • Starter motor (if applicable)
  • Battery terminals (if corroded)

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

1 items

Parts

2 items

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