BMW 5-Series E39 530d - BMW e39 3.0d Cold Start

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Sun 21 Feb 2010 22:34
BMW 5-Series E39 530d - BMW e39 3.0d Cold Start - JeffMc
I've been having some problems with my 530d, intermittently not starting. All fuel pumps checked OK and 1 diesel injector replaced, rest all ok.

That has improved things but still having problems start of day when very cold, so now figure that some of the existing problem might be glow plugs.

It normally does start (when it doesn't I do then need to charge battery). Seems to 'chug' to life - reluctant to turn over almost as if it's the battery struggling even when I know it's fully charged.

When it does start it will be fine the rest of the day. Likewise if it's mild overnight rather than freezing it will be ok.

It only ever struggles if I have to wait for 'Pre-Heating' to go out which is why I'm fairly sure that it is the glow plugs - if it doesn't say 'Pre-Heating' I know it will start fine.

Does my diagnosis sound right? Are they easy to replace or am I better getting a dealer to do it? I assume 1 per cylinder?

Thanks
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