My First (Really) Cold Morning
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 12
From: Connecticut
2018 BMW 540d
My First (Really) Cold Morning
Having bought my Bluetec last Spring this morning was my first experience in real cold with it (+5F).On many *really* cold mornings with my BMW diesel there was no hesitation at all in starting when I hit the "start" button...and that includes a -31F morning.However,this morning the little squiggly "glow plug" light of the BT stayed lit for about 3-4 seconds and then when out.The car then started normally.
I know that 4 seconds is no big deal but I'm curious about the difference between the two cars.
My question....is this short delay typical (that is,normal) for the Bluetec?
I know that 4 seconds is no big deal but I'm curious about the difference between the two cars.
My question....is this short delay typical (that is,normal) for the Bluetec?
Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 131
Likes: 1
2006 ml350
Yes, this is normal. I do not have the BMW, but I have had a 2010 ML350 Bluetec and through the last winter the longest the "glow plug" indicator was on was about 8 seconds after sitting outdoors for a week in Lake Wadena, Minn, in February (-31 deg F would be considered the high, it got really cold at night).
My guess is that the MB would have started just fine without waiting. I say that with confidence because my wife makes no distinction whether the indicator is on/off and never waits to hit the starter. It starts fine every time.
My guess is that the MB would have started just fine without waiting. I say that with confidence because my wife makes no distinction whether the indicator is on/off and never waits to hit the starter. It starts fine every time.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 348
Likes: 2
From: Houston, Tx
2015 C63S
Does the starter delay turning over even though she just hops in and hits it? I think the BMW has a safety provision where if it is so cold that the glow plug light comes on that it will not actually turn on even if you try to until the light comes off.
Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 131
Likes: 1
2006 ml350
I do not recall a delay in the starter... It appears to crank from the time it is given the signal even if the "glow plug" indicator is illuminated. I'll confirm this with my wife and edit this post if my recollection is wrong.
