Checking computers?

[kraia]

I have an 89' 325i and was wondering if there was any way to check the computer to see if it is good or not. The car isn't starting and it's getting spark, fuel, and air. Everything seems to be checking out alright but the car just wont start. Any help would be awesome. Thanks!!!

 

[Mr.W]

If you wanted to check the computer, you would most likely have to take to a BMW shop and
they will hook it up to there computers and test it.

 

[bichmgnt]

The question is how/why did it stop working? Did it stall all of a sudden and then wouldn't start? Check the timing belt. It's been a hot topic lately.

Look inside the oil filler hole and see if the valves are working. If not start reading the timing belt threads.

Steve

 

[ldzpstnr]

Your car should have the motronic 1.1 fuel system with self diagnostic ability. All you have to do is turn the ignition to the ON position and not start the engine, then wait three seconds. At that time the check engine light will blick once, twice, three or four times per error found. There are 4 trouble codes with this car.

Code 1= Airflow meter
Code 2= Oxygen Sensor
Code 3= Coolant Tempurature Sensor
Code 4= Throttle Position Senser

It could be the Airflow meter or ECU in my opinion. Check the airflow meter first. The car should still run with the O2 sensor faulty.

I have a coolant sensor go out once, here is what it did: The car would start fine and run for like 30-45 seconds fine. But after that it would start to miss and run real crappy. I could not get the engine to get over 3500 rpm. This was my '85 318i. That was my expierence with fualty coolant sensors.

I got the code info from my Haynes manual. I have a 87 325 with the 1.0 motronic system so I do not have the diagnostic ability. The manual does say that the ECU has to be tested by a dealer or repair shop.

Later

 

[kraia]

Thanks for the help. The timing belt is fine. How do I check the air flow meter. I've been trying to find out how in my shop manual but there is only info on how to replace it. I have it out of the car on my work bench I just don't know what values I should be getting. I just want the car to run again. So upsetting!!!