[bomba33g]

Hi all

I drive a BMW E36, 318is 1998 model and I have a problem with the engine,It just cuts off while running even while on the road. It wont start up again unless being jump started with a push.It also switches off even while in idle mode, you need to rev it up to keep the engine running.
Please assist

Vusi

[Landshark928]

If it cuts off while driving and then the starter will not turn again, sounds like the alternator is bad.

Do you have parts stores there that will spin an alternator to test it? Also check ground cables to make sure they have a solid, clean contact. BMWs and Porsches are natorious for using mulitple ground points which tend to go bad over time.

When the car is running can you hook up a multi-meter to see how many volts are at the batter terminals as well as at the output post of the alternator?

We need more information to be able to help.

[LATECH]

X 2 what landshark said. Need to check the charging system and battery.Replace as necessary. If you determine through testing that it is not the problem then make a new post in the Modern Engine Electronics section and some one can help you there.

[bomba33g]

Hi all
I have checked the alternator and battery voltage and found it to be fine at 14volts while the engine is running. The alternator seems to be charging fine but the car still cuts off.
I have also changed the fuel pump.

[tjet]

The problem you describe sounds like a bad relay to the fuel pump or EFI.

Locate the relays in the fuse box. Start the car and let it idle. Using the plastic end of a screwdriver, gently tap on each relay. If the car dies while you tapped on a specific relay, that's the bad/weak one.

[LATECH]

Its beginning to sound like a crankshaft posisition sensor is going bad.
When it shuts off, check for spark to the plugs and check for injector pulse. Post results.