BMW Repair: 2001 530i; random dashboard signals followed by engine shut-off, cpo warranty, dashboard lights

Question
Hello Don,

I purchased a 2001 BMW 530i last week from 2nd owner.  It has 44k miles on it and a CPO warranty good until end of 2006.  2nd owner had new batter replaced two weeks ago.

I've had almost identical problem twice so far.  During first time, with keys out of the ignition, wiper blades started moving, radio stayed on, interior fan stayed on.  Remote key would not unlock the car.  Later, while driving, random dashboard lights came on inluding battery, airbag, DSC, etc.  When I turned off the engine and attempted a re-start, car wouldn't start (only selenoid noise). Within about 1 hour, after several start attempts and rear lights staying on (God knows why), battery completely drained out.

BMW service detected "instrument cluster" failure and replaced the unit.

As I drive off from the dealership, I face all of the following within 1 mile distance.

Breaks, ABS signal turn on.  DSC signal follows.  Airbag signal turns on a few seconds later.  In return, Break, ABS signal turns off.  A few seconds fter that, all off a sudden, all warning lights disappear with a "fuse just gone bad" noise.  This also shuts off my turn signal.  Car vibrates a little as if it's not getting enough juice.  And then engine shuts off completely as I idle at the red traffic signal.  Car doesn't re-start (made a very strange noise once as if it was dieing from a stab).

What do you think the problem is?  Please advise.

Thank you sincerely,
Faisal


Answer
Well it is good that you have a warrantee as it looks as if it will be needed.You have an electrical fault wether it be a bad ground wire or power suppply.The snapping noise is where I would check as it may have been fuse related.Check your fuses and the extent of the warrantee status