Pretty sure my solenoid or starter went south. But thought I would ask a little on how they work first.

Newer battery shows 12.4volts in sub-freezing temps. When I turn the key I hear the starter gear popping out and what *might* be the starter motor spinning. Start was always very quiet but it not the fuel pump I am hearing. Either that or I am just hearing the solenoid click and the gear staying in place.

Either way, when I try to start her that is all I get. All lights stay on, etc. I even fired up the rear defrost, heated seats, stereo system, lights, etc and everything stayed on - no indication of the car thinking the power level was too weak via flashing indicators on the various switches.

The alternator was replaced at same time as battery with new regulator.

So will the car even try to crank if power is really low or is there some minimum voltage, etc?

I did check the positive small red wire. I did wiggle shift, but that would only make the clicking happen a lot.

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1991 560 SEL / 185k miles
1992 750il / 17k miles - project car