Non starter

Daryl Morecraft · January 13

Hi,new to this site! Changed the fuel filter on my 2008 X3 2.0d E83 and it won't start for love nor money now! Done the switch the ignition on for 30 seconds numerous times but still not starting! Presuming air in the fuel system,can anyone out there tell me how to bleed the system as can't see a manual bleeder anywhere! Thanks in advance Daryl

Greydog · January 13

Hi Daryl

Welcome to the Forum

First are you sure the Fuel Pump is running in the tank? The system normally self bleeds. You could try releasing air at the fuel rail pressure test schrader valve. Make sure you have plenty of Rag/Paper Towel there as it doesn't take much fuel to make a big mess everywhere. Either take out the schrader valve or depress the nipple while an assistant cycles the ignition for 30 secs or so.

I have also heard of attaching a vacuum pump to number 1 injector fuel feed and pulling fuel through into the fuel rail that way, never tried that myself but worth a go.

Good Luck

Dave

Daryl Morecraft · January 20

Hi Dave,thank you for your reply,it was running before i got my hands on it🤣the car is not local to me so will probably have another go this Sat. But will try what you've suggested and many thanks! Will update the progress on this!

Cheers Daryl

Daryl Morecraft · 2025-02-03T09:06:11Z

Hi Dave,just a quick update on the non starting X3,took the fuel filter apart and replaced the thin rubber seal that goes in-between,but still no start! Put my Autel scanner on it and found a bleed fuel system on it,run that fired up the pump for a bit and the engine started. So all good. Still hasn't cured the lack of power,thought it may of been a clogged fuel filter hence changing that! It's Like there is no boost. Flipping embarrassing on hills,It's burning oil so I'm thinking the turbo is at fault. But don't have the eml on!Can anyone confirm my thoughts on the turbo or any other ideas on the lack of power.

Many thanks Daryl

Greydog · 2025-02-03T13:35:36Z

Hi Daryl

Check the boost side of the inlet system all the hoses and Vacuum lines, make sure the Inter Cooler isnt blocked or damaged and there are no leaks. Also check the EGR is not clogged or sticking

I brought my own X5 E70 very cheap the previous owner sold it as Spare/Repairs, he had spent lots of hard earned guessing at the problem and changing parts. I removed the turbo and exchanged it for a Rebuilt unit all good since so worth checking

Dave