Contributed by kit533i
As we've seen from some recent posts, some newcomers to this forum/family might require some basic guidelines for posing their questions to ensure that they might receive constructive help.
If you are a newcomer (heretofore referred to as noob) and you are reading this post, we commend you for taking the time to consider the wisdom contained herein. What follows is a bulleted list of some very important concepts to consider before posting a message that contains the subject line: "HELP, MY CAR WON'T START!" with no information in the body of the message. There are several, more lengthy sources for additional pertinent wisdom such as several pages from Corner-Carvers: Corner-carvers official posting rules. This link is both a very informative and entertaining read when it comes to learning how to be an effective contributor to any online community.
We know you just want a quick answer to your question. This forum and these cars have been around a LONG time. In all likelihood, your question has already been answered, or the answer is available to you with just a little work.
MyE28 Posting Guidelines
- Before you post a question:
- Do you have a Bentley Manual? Have you used it to try to solve the problem yourself?
- Do you have the appropriate Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM) for your car? Have you used it to try to solve the problem yourself?
- Have you searched the archives? If not use this guide: Searching The Site: How, Why, and Excuses.
- If you disregard the above, it will be pointed out to more forcefully when you ask why your heater doesn't blow warm air.
- Please follow basic internet/email etiquette when composing your message.
- Make the subject title indicative of the problem (or part) in question.
- Good: '87 535is - Runs rough when cold - How to diagnose?
- Bad: Please help!
- When posting a question regarding your car, include the year and model (e.g. 1985 528e, or 88 535is).
- If you're experiencing problems that generate some symptom; unexpected noises, smoke, no start, etc., then include a clear and COMPLETE description of said symptoms.
- Do not tell us your life story. Keep technical questions terse and to the point.
- Each thread should cover ONE topic.
- Indicate what, if any, changes were made that may have led up to the problem (e.g. "I got these new aftermarket wheels and tires and now I have a front end shimmy.")
- Any new parts installed or replaced?
- Any difficulty in installing any new parts?
- Did you run over any road debris or small animals?
- Have you received any advice already, and if so, what was it?
- Indicate what, if any, diagnostic steps you have taken. What have you done so far to attempt to resolve the problem?
- And most importantly, when your problem is resolved, let everyone know!!! Many people put a lot of time and effort into helping you. Let them know what suggestions worked.
Good luck and welcome to the MyE28.com community.