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2023 M2 Occasional No-Start, Just Clicks - No Codes

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:57 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 BMW M2 (G87)

Hey guys,

I'm having a really frustrating intermittent issue with my 2023 BMW M2 (G87). Sometimes, when I try to start it, all I hear is a single click from the engine bay, and then nothing. No crank, no start. All the dashboard lights come on normally, and the infotainment system powers up.

If I wait a few minutes or try again a couple of times, it usually starts right up as if nothing was wrong. The weirdest part is that my OBD-II scanner doesn't show any fault codes, current or pending.

This has happened about 3-4 times in the last month. The car is still fairly new, only about 10,000 miles. Could it be a battery issue already, or something else more complex like a starter or a relay? Any ideas on what to check?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:57 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

An occasional no-start condition where you only hear a single click, especially without any stored fault codes, points to a common set of issues, even on a newer 2023 BMW M2. The fact that it eventually starts suggests an intermittent electrical connection or component failure rather than a catastrophic failure.

Here's a diagnostic approach:

  1. Battery Health Check: Even a new battery can have an intermittent internal fault, or it might not be fully charged. Have the battery professionally load-tested. A weak battery, especially one with a low cranking amp capacity, can cause the starter solenoid to click but not engage the starter motor. Check battery terminal connections for cleanliness and tightness.

  2. Starter Motor & Solenoid: The single click is often the starter solenoid engaging but failing to push the starter gear into the flywheel or failing to send power to the starter motor. This can be due to:

    • Worn Solenoid Contacts: Over time, the contacts inside the solenoid can wear, leading to intermittent connection.
    • Starter Motor Dead Spot: The starter motor itself might have a 'dead spot' where it occasionally gets stuck. When you try again, it might land on a good spot.

  3. Starter Relay: The starter relay is a small electrical component that sends power to the starter solenoid when you press the start button. A faulty or intermittently sticking relay could cause this issue. On many BMWs, the starter relay is integrated into the fuse box or a control module, making it less straightforward to swap directly.

  4. Ground Connections: A poor ground connection between the engine/starter and the chassis can also cause intermittent starting issues. Inspect the main ground strap from the engine to the chassis.

  5. Ignition Switch/Start Button: While less common on newer push-button start systems, an intermittent fault in the start button or its associated wiring could also be a culprit.

When to See a Shop:

If the battery tests good and you're not comfortable inspecting or testing the starter motor or relay, it's best to take your 2023 BMW M2 to a BMW dealership or a reputable independent specialist. They have advanced diagnostic tools that can monitor the starting circuit in real-time and potentially catch the fault when it occurs, even if no codes are stored.

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