Q: Stalling and misfiring at idle on a 1999 BMW Z3
I have a BMW Z3, 1999. At idle, it sputters a bit and feels like it's going to stall but just as it bangs on, it first feels like a misfire. The car drives fine when it's warm, and idles under 1,000 RPM.
Recommended Services
| Car is stalling Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Those things are notorious for getting vacuum leaks on them because the tops of the engines are all made out of plastic--including the intake system. Especially on the driver’s side, there are all kinds of plastic piping. You’d want to look for the vacuum leaks first and if you’ve got a vacuum leak it’s going to do all that stuff. Now, if you don’t have a vacuum leak, those are also notorious for having very bad MAF sensors. Mass air flow sensors--check that with a scan tool too. But, it’s often vacuum leaks on that car. It’s really typical when it gets that old. I would have a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, inspect your vehicle’s misfiring and stalling issue so that you know exactly what should be repaired.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
Car sputters in First or Second gear
The wet weather was a good hint toward an ignition misfire. The water will make the spark plugs and wires too short to ground. You would most likely be able to hear a snapping noise from the plug wires in...
Car shakes when brakes applied
The shaking when the brake pedal is pressed is most likely caused by your brake rotors; you may need to have them replaced, as well as your brake pads. I recommend having a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic,...
Clutch not working
If the clutch had been slipping prior to the failure and now nothing happens, it may be worn out. Once the clutch wears, the mechanical connection between the engine and transmission is broken and power cannot be delivered. Have an...
After replacing the window regulator, and using the same motor, the window doesn't go all the way down.
Hey there. There is a safety limit switch that is built into the motor. You may have to check the window track or inside the door for something blocking the window regulator from going all the way down. You may...
Check engine light came while driving. Is this a serious problem? car seems to be running fine. 2004 Hyundai SantaFe
Hello - the Enhaust Gas Recirculation - EGR (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-egr-control-solenoid) - system reduces emissions by recirculating exhaust gases that are not completely burned back through the engine. This is done in a timed manner under certain conditions. If this system is...
Description of Problem: clutch master cylinder leak 1993 Ford Ranger
Hi there - your clutch fluid line leak (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-flexible-clutch-hose) may be a problem with the connector thread for either the master cylinder itself, or the fluid line going to the slave cylinder. I recommend a fluid leak inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-fluid-is-leaking-around-clutch-pedal-inspection) performed...
When it rains heavy, my car sputters and I have to play with the. gas petal then it wants to take off 1999 Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Hello - given your symptoms and mileage, the throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-replace-a-throttle-position-sensor-by-mia-bevacqua) is a likely candidate for this behavior. Check for problem codes first to verify the diagnostic code(s) engine management will provide automatically. Most auto parts stores will do...
Loud clicks no start
If what you have is a rapid tapping sound when you turn the key, You are not getting enough current to the starter. When the solenoid engages and connects the starter, the battery voltage rapidly drops to the point where...
Clicking noise is much louder when accelerating. What's could that sound be?
The clicking sound may possibly be rocker arms that may need to be adjusted. When these are incorrectly adjusted or too loose, this causes a bit of play in between the rocker arm and the valve spring. As the engine...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW 5-Series
BMW BMW has built a reputation for refined engineering, powerful performance and excellent fit and function. That’s exactly what you’ll find with the 2012 BMW 5-Series sedans. Composed and powerful, they provide a range of price points, features and capabilities...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5
In In 2012, BMW brought out the turbocharged 3.0 liter engine ActiveHybrid 5. The ActiveHybrid 5 is a real wheel, four door sedan that holds five passengers. Key Features Key features of the ActiveHybrid include the 3.0 liter inline six...
How to Inspect Car Vacuum Hoses
As As you drive your car, your engine draws in massive amounts of air which it then mixes with gas and ignites it to keep the engine running. The vacuum created as a result is fairly constant depending on throttle...
Browse other content
Maintenance
Services