Why does a BMW shake a few times after ignition and then stall?
2 Answers
The reasons why a BMW shakes a few times after ignition and then stalls include cylinder misfire and severe carbon buildup in the cylinders. Below are detailed explanations of the causes and solutions: 1. Cylinder misfire: This is the most common cause of engine shaking. The issue lies with the engine ignition coil or spark plugs. If the ignition coil malfunctions or the spark plugs fail to fire for some reason, the car will experience shaking. Solution: Replace the engine ignition coil or spark plugs. 2. Severe carbon buildup in the cylinders: If severe carbon buildup in the cylinders causes the engine spark plugs or valves to become clogged, the engine will also shake. Solution: If the car's acceleration performance has deteriorated and the shaking is persistent, consider cleaning the engine cylinders.
I've been driving a BMW for over a decade now, and from time to time, I encounter this annoying issue where the car starts, shakes a few times, and then stalls. It's most likely a problem with the ignition system—maybe the spark plugs are worn out or the ignition coils are faulty, causing uneven ignition and making the engine vibrate. It could also be insufficient fuel supply, like a clogged fuel filter or a weak fuel pump, leading to low fuel pressure and causing the engine to starve and stall. Don’t overlook the sensors either; a faulty crankshaft position sensor can leave the engine disoriented. My advice is to first check the battery voltage—if it's low, try charging it. Next, see if any fuses have blown. Don’t tinker with it yourself—BMWs are precision machines, so it’s best to take it to an authorized shop for a computer diagnostic. Fixing it early saves big money down the line. During regular maintenance, pay attention to replacing the fuel filter and spark plugs to prevent this issue. After all, safety comes first—stalling on the road is seriously dangerous.
