1997 E31 Inoperative

[VodScanner]

Greetings, everyone,

I need counsel. Today, I attempted to start my automobile, but it is inoperative. There are no dashboard lights illuminated; just the mileage is shown. Upon turning the key to position two, the lights remain unlit, and the temperature gauge flickers, with no further indications. No response, no activity. The vehicle has been stored on a trickle charge for many weeks, and the batteries are functioning OK, registering 12.6 volts. I have inspected all fuses, and they seem to be intact. Inspected the inline fuse in the trunk with a probe; they seem to be intact. Both 200 amp and 80 amp are acceptable.
The vehicle was functioning well before, and now it is inoperative. Unable to operate the windows.

Any guidance would be much appreciated.
Thank you.

[NotePapa]

The batteries may indicate 12.6V, although they are nonfunctional due to elevated series resistance, necessitating replacement

[NotePapa]

 

[VodScanner]

I will install two new batteries, and that should enough. I will keep you informed.

[Spiderer]

Cold conditions will consistently deplete an aged battery.

[VodScanner]

Update acknowledged. I visited Halfords and purchased two brand new batteries identical to those seen in Tim's battery swap video.
installed batteries. There is no response; the engine remains unresponsive. The vehicle exhibits no crank; moreover, I neglected to note yesterday that the driver's side window down three-quarters of the way autonomously. I am now unable to shut the window.


Do you have any further suggestions? ☹

[VodScanner]

I removed the cowling around the steering wheel, and the ignition housing seems to be in poor condition.

[VodScanner]

[VodScanner]

I have tested the ignition switch and can confirm that power is now present in the green wire. It indicates ground only. Upon supplying electricity via the probe, all systems activate, and the ignition indicator on the dashboard illuminates. Could it be a defective ignition switch?

[VodScanner]

I visited the local dismantlers, AWSR BMW, and purchased an additional ignition switch. I replaced it with my own, and lo and behold, the ignition indicator illuminated on the dashboard, and the vehicle started immediately.
I will analyse the old one to determine the reason of its failure.


I contacted with the BMW dealer; the item is available for £130, but delivery from Germany will take one week.

[Spiderer]

Outcome.
It is unfortunate that you did not check there before to purchasing new batteries; nonetheless, you are assured of sufficient longevity in that regard for many years.