Super cold (-20 C) start problem

I am having a cold start problem. It only occurs when it gets pretty chilly: -15 to -20 celcius. It will start for a second if that and then turn off. It will continue to do this obviously unless I give it gas and it warms up a bit. It is fine the rest of the day as long as I'm using it a fair bit and stays warm. I want to say it is a fuel injection problem, but I'm not sure. 1990 325i. Thanks!

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: BMW E30 Coolant Temp Sensor Replacement

[Wayne 962]

Hmm, -20 degrees C is pretty darn cold. The car is 21 years old - I'm not sure if they were designed to start that well when they were brand new. At those temps, the oil is very thick and difficult to move through the engine. I would say the problem might just be the norm for a 21-year old BMW. Try using some lighter-weight oil too. Also, check the ambient air temp sensors on the car, although I really think coaxing the car to get started in -20 C weather is to be expected.

- Wayne

[Teddytrout]

Originally Posted by jos (guest)

I am having a cold start problem. It only occurs when it gets pretty chilly: -15 to -20 celcius. It will start for a second if that and then turn off. It will continue to do this obviously unless I give it gas and it warms up a bit. It is fine the rest of the day as long as I'm using it a fair bit and stays warm. I want to say it is a fuel injection problem, but I'm not sure. 1990 325i. Thanks!

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: BMW E30 Coolant Temp Sensor Replacement

I have the same problem here in Winnipeg and I just started happening. It's one of the sensors for sure. I found just keeping the key turned cranking, after about 5-6 starts and it works just fine after that. Colent temp switch needs cleaning or replaceing.