Enigne died, won't start

[CorvallisBMW]

My engine died today on the freeway. It began to chug and I felt the power loss, then it just died altogether. It cranks good, has spark and fuel, but wont start. I replaced the fuel pump relay just in case, checked that the pump was working and getting power, checked the coil and all the wires, but now I am just at a loss. Where's the next place to look?

[jlevie]

Does "has spark and fuel" mean the you see spark when the engine cranks over and that you have normal pressure at the fuel rail? If you didn't check the fuel pressure you don't know if the pump is working properly, even if you can hear it run.

While the failure mode doesn't sound like a failed timing belt, have you checked the timing belt?

[CorvallisBMW]

Yes I checked the pressure at the rail, it's right within spec. I replaced the fuel pump relay too, just in case. I have no idea, the only other thing I can think of is the crank position sensor?

[CorvallisBMW]

Dee dee dee!!!! injector wiring harness came unplugged beneath the TB :P

[jlevie]

A failure of the crank position sensor will yield no spark and no running of the fuel pump. Since you say those are present that doesn't sound like the cause.

Does the camshaft turn when you crank the engine (look through the oil fill opening)?

[mattdk318i]

wait, didnt you just replace your head gasket? id check your compression to make sure.

Matt