It’s known for its performance, comfort, and modern technology, which makes BMW one of the top brands in the industry. The company has made a bunch of vehicles with cool features and designs. Nevertheless, BMWs can malfunction just like anything else electronic.
A starter ignition problem is one of the problems that BMW enthusiasts can encounter occasionally. The purpose of this article is to provide an in-depth examination of various ignition problems in BMW models, including the 1 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, X1, X5, and some variants such as the F20, 328i, 320d, and F30.
In modern BMWs, there’s a chance of starter ignition problems. Battery problems, starter motor problems, and ignition system problems can cause the problem.
Faulty ignition switches: what causes them?
Starting an engine requires the ignition switch. As a result of this connection, the voltage provider circuit initiates the engine by connecting it to the starter motor.
Electrical problems, physical damage, corrosion, battery problems, starter motor problems, etc., may cause a properly functioning ignition switch to become defective. Our goal is to identify the causes of the error and to determine the best means of solving it.
Why “Ignition Switched On BMW” Warnings occur
Ignition switches can be damaged for many reasons. Here are some common ones.
- Switch is faulty
- Issues with batteries
- Problems with the starter motor
- Problems with electricity
- ECU failure
Switch is faulty
The reason
Wear and tear or physical damage can cause a faulty ignition switch that displays the “ignition switched on BMW” warning. The key switch can also get damaged by corrosion and forceful rotation.
Signs and symptoms
There are a few symptoms that can help you determine if your ignition switch is defective.
- There is no power to start the engine, nor can the key be turned.
- There is no sound from the starter when the car stalls.
- You can’t power on the accessories and the dashboard lights flicker.
- Having trouble steering the car.
Following successful treatment of these symptoms, prompting them promptly is the next step.
A solution
Verify that no components are damaged or corroded on the switch. The ignition contacts should be cleaned and repaired if possible if they contain debris and corrosion. Replacing the malfunctioning switch with a new one is the most reliable and long-lasting method.
Due to the requirement of advanced tools and mechanic skills, you should seek the services of a mechanic shop in order to perform this replacement.
Issues with batteries
The reason
There are times when a battery will become weak, damaged, or old. This will, in turn, cause random power outages, causing power to not be distributed effectively to the ignition switch.
Signs and symptoms
Some electrical components, such as the radio, GPU, accessories, and weak charging, may not function properly if a battery is failing or dimming headlights, flickering interior lights, or difficulty starting the car.
A solution
Battery conditions should be checked and made sure they are not too old and functioning properly. Ensure there are at least 12.6 volts in the battery. Changing the battery and installing a new one is necessary if the voltage is below 12.6.
Problems with the starter motor
The reason
Inability to engage flywheel and failure to start starter motor cause engine failure. The motor may be malfunctioning or a component may be worn out.
Signs and symptoms
- There is a smell or smoke coming from the engine when you turn the key.
- Pressing the start button will cause you to hear clicking or grinding sounds.
A solution
Get a certified technician to inspect the starter motor if it is not functioning properly. An examination of it by the mechanic will determine what is causing the BMW car’s ignition switch to be illuminated.
Problems with electricity
The reason
Fuse boxes, wiring, connectors, etc., are connected to the ignition system. The BMW display may display an “ignition switched on” message when one of these components becomes faulty.
Signs and symptoms
There are a variety of symptoms associated with electrical problems, including malfunctioning electronics, blown fuses, warning lights, damaged wires, and loose connectors.
A solution
If there are any signs of damage, you should thoroughly inspect each electric part. In order to resolve the problem, replace the faulty component with a new one after detecting the defect.
Also, you can watch the video below to learn more about these causes.
Ignition switched on BMW warning: how do we fix it?
FIXING THE IMAGE TRANSFER WARNING IN A BMW is outlined in this step-by-step guide.
- Measure the voltage with a multimeter to determine how well the battery is performing. Twelve to thirteen volts is the ideal voltage.
- To determine the faulty codes in the ECU, you need to connect a scanner, such as an OBD-II scanner.
- Batteries in essential fobs need to be replaced. The key fob should be reprogrammed or replaced if issues persist.
You have to turn off the engine a few minutes after you finish all the inspections, replacements, repairs, and completions. Hopefully, the warning will disappear from the display once you start the engine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean if my BMW ignition switch is “switched on” but the car won’t start?
If your BMW’s ignition switch is in the “on” position and the dashboard lights illuminate but the engine does not start, it may indicate a problem with the ignition switch or related electrical components. This could involve issues such as a faulty ignition switch, a dead battery, or problems with the starter motor.
How can I tell if my ignition switch is failing?
Common symptoms of a failing ignition switch include:
Electrical components (like the radio or dashboard lights) stay on after the key is removed.
Difficulty starting the vehicle or intermittent starting issues.
Warning messages on the dashboard, such as “ignition failure” or similar alerts.
Can I replace the ignition switch without getting new keys?
Yes, in many BMW models, the ignition switch can be replaced independently of the lock cylinder. This means you typically won’t need new keys if your existing key fits the lock cylinder. However, it’s advisable to consult your vehicle’s manual or a professional to ensure compatibility.
What should I do if my ignition fuse keeps blowing?
If you experience frequent blowing of fuses related to the ignition system, this could indicate a short circuit within the ignition switch or related wiring. It’s recommended to inspect the wiring for damage and consider replacing the ignition switch if necessary.
Is it safe to drive my BMW with a faulty ignition switch?
Driving with a faulty ignition switch can be risky as it may lead to unexpected engine shutdowns or failure to start. It’s advisable to address any ignition issues promptly to avoid being stranded and to ensure your vehicle operates safely.
How much does it cost to replace an ignition switch in a BMW?
The cost for replacing an ignition switch can vary widely depending on the model and labor costs but typically ranges from $80 to $200 for parts and labor combined. It’s best to get quotes from multiple service providers for an accurate estimate.
Conclusion
There is a critical problem with BMW’s ignition switch, as indicated by the “Ignition switched on” warning on its dashboard. Identifying the exact faulty part is difficult, and having it fixed quickly is difficult as well. As soon as you have diagnosed the problem, you can efficiently fix it by testing various components, including the battery, the ECU, the electric components, and the starter motor.
BMW drivers, however, have little mechanical understanding of how to fix this error. Expert technicians can resolve this complex warning accurately. In order to maintain the performance and efficiency of your BMW, you should seek professional help.
