engine won't go past 3500 while driving!

futureV10 · 08-26-2003, 03:04 AM

I have a 1989 325i and any time the tach gets to about 3500-4000 RPM, the needle just bounces off, like it's hitting a rev limiter. I just replaced the fuel filter, and it worked fine for about 20 minutes, but went back to the same problem.

Please, HELP!!

Slowered318 · 08-26-2003, 07:44 AM

I'm not shure if the 325's have a crank sensor, but if they do that was the problem I had. A stone got jammed between the sensor and the crank, it ripped the top of the $275 sensor apart. If it's a distributor system then that could be the problem too, contacts wear out and the fireing order gets all gimped up

Best of luck

**EMPOWERD** · 08-26-2003, 11:30 AM

engine RPM limit at 3500rpm means your ECU is currently running in limp mode. Something you did caused this. To fix it temporarily locate the computer (in the glove box, screwed to the top) and disconnect it. It's very easy to do and required a phillips screwdriver to remove the plastic and a 8mm or 10mm (can't remember) socket to drop the computer.. they carefully remove the large wiring harness plug and reconnect. wah-lah!

nzer · 08-26-2003, 10:58 PM

valve bouncing? .. or perhaps the cam belt is installed incorrectly, and the timing can't be adjusted so you seem limited to 4000 ish.

Randy: I didn't know the e30s had "limp mode". What causes it?

ZiMMie · 08-27-2003, 04:07 AM

chk ur spark plugs..