My bmw 318 2002 reg - keeps cutting off and the problem is getting worse. once it cuts off it takes half an hr to start. local garage diagnose crankshaft sensor, camshaft sensors and lamda. would these cause such a problem? if so where is the crankshaft sensor cause i looked arround the engine and could not locate it. the engine is so compact and there is no working space.

SOURCE: location of crank sensor on renault megane 1.6, 2004

bit confused...the cranksensor will be on the gearbox housing the camsensor will be near the cams not the gearbox if the camsensor has packed up it wont start but if it packs up while driving the engine will run untill you stop it then it wont start,a cranksensor could cause the engine to stop at anytime if it fails..your problem could be the idle air control valve or a timing related issue..

SOURCE: Where is the crankshaft position

It is stuck in bellhousing of the transmission near the rear head. The new crank sensor will come with a piece of gasket paper on the end of the sensor. Install the sensor all the way in against the pick-up wheel. When you crank the engine the wheel will rip off the paper and the adjustment will be correct.

SOURCE: BMW 318 si 2002 engine cuts out

i had the same problem and it was infact the timing and chain tensioners

SOURCE: bmw compact s reg. noisy when turning steering

Look inside the reservoir while the car is running and see if it is low. If it is turn the car off and add power steering fluid. You can purchase at a gas station or parts house. Some people use transmission fluid but it is not a good Idea because it can cetch on fire if you have leak in your power steering system. You can look for leaks when you have someone steer the car fom side to side. Make sure you turn the wheel tight so the whinng is at it's loudest. Check your power steering hoses and rack and pinion,etc. Hope this helps leave a comment.