Bad idle when cold...help!

[Ratfink]

Hi guys,
When i start my 316i in the morning or from cold it idles badly and the rev counter needle jumps up n down. Sometimes when you pull away it stutters aswell.
Within 30 seconds the problem goes away.
Any ideas? Im told it could be the temperature sensor, can you test for this?
Thanks

[toby]

ok I'm sure some other people will give you a more accurate idea but my tupence is
has the car been serviced? the basics need to be checked first.
the poor cold running may be a problem just caused by a weak fuel mixture

good luck sorting it - shouldn't be anything too expensive

[TheDutch]

http://www.e30zone.co.uk/modules.php?na ... ic&t=28525

[Ratfink]

It does sound like that blue temp sensor...i'll give it a try.
Thanks

[Brianmoooore]

Hi guys,
When i start my 316i in the morning or from cold it idles badly and the rev counter needle jumps up n down. Sometimes when you pull away it stutters aswell.
Within 30 seconds the problem goes away.
Any ideas? Im told it could be the temperature sensor, can you test for this?
Thanks

Do you mean the rev counrter jumps up and down as the revs rise and fall with the bad idle, or like it had a bad connection?

[Ratfink]

Hi guys,
When i start my 316i in the morning or from cold it idles badly and the rev counter needle jumps up n down. Sometimes when you pull away it stutters aswell.
Within 30 seconds the problem goes away.
Any ideas? Im told it could be the temperature sensor, can you test for this?
Thanks

Do you mean the rev counrter jumps up and down as the revs rise and fall with the bad idle, or like it had a bad connection?

Sorry i meant with the bad idle...it goes from about 500-1500 rpm then you drive up the road and its fine.

Im wondering if that temp sensor is to blame

[Brianmoooore]

Blue temp sensor is a strong possibility, but take off and check the large rubber hose between the air filter assembly and the throttle body, and check it very carefully for splits.

[Ratfink]

Ok will do...i did have a quick look at that and it seemed ok but i will double check it.