20 Most Recent 2004 BMW 318i Touring Questions & Answers

you low on rad fluid? Most common reason.

Check the operation of the Throttle Position Sensor.

sounds like a engine sensor i'd guess at the crank sensor but to be sure you would need to get the OBD codes read , this will give the exact fault so wont waste money trying sensor(s) on a hit an miss basis,you can buy a code reader online not expensive just make sure it covers your vehicle make then you have a valuable diag equipment for future use

In the trunk under floor plate.

Check to make sure that the ignition timing cover is secure and did not get water in it. It is the place where all the spark plug wires go to from the engine. if water gets into there it will cause the ignition timing to be off or even cause it not to spark. if this has happened. remove cover let the water dry up and put new seal on cover to prevent it from happening again.

it could be your plug wires or the timing

Question edited to what I think, you thought you were saying :>D Question moved to model category. All vehicles need 2 good keys. I don't suppose you have a way of testing the battery voltage? It is drops below 11 volts, nothing works the way It should, including removing the key on a vehicle that is an automatic. You have the symptoms of a car alarm and immobilizer stopping it starting. After disconnecting the battery, it definitely need resetting. You need a mobile auto locksmith you cut you a new key and program both keys to make it start. People always think they only need one key because they are careful and won't lose it. Then they do and you either pay dealership prices for a key to be made based on the VIN number, or you buy a new lock and keys and have the hassle of fitting it and reprogramming it. https://www.google.com/search?q=auto+locksmith+near+me ..

check relay and wiring for short

if you have a key fob (you did not specify year), remove the regular key and there is a key location around the handle that you can use to unlock the trunk