BMW 8 Diesel Won't Start: AdBlue Tank Error Troubleshooting

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars, and I actually faced a similar issue with my 2016 BMW 7 diesel last year. When I had this problem, it turned out the AdBlue output from the tank to the dosing unit was faulty. Took it to my workshop, and they had to replace some components in the delivery system. Total bill came to about 250 Euro, and they had it fixed in about a day. Before I share more specific details though, could you tell me what exact error message you're getting on the dash? Also, when was the last time you refilled your AdBlue tank? These details would help me understand if you're dealing with the same issue I had. By the way, I see you have an 8 series, beautiful car! I test drove one before getting my 7. Both are fantastic machines.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My mileage is currently at 194,693 KM, and I had my last service about 2 months ago. The error message shows "AdBlue system malfunction," and the engine won't start at all. I've actually checked the AdBlue level through the onboard computer, and it shows nearly empty, which makes me think this might be simpler than your case. Really hoping it's just a matter of refilling rather than a system component failure like you experienced. Did your workshop mention any quick checks I could do before bringing it in?

Hey again! Thanks for those details, that definitely helps paint a clearer picture. You're right, your situation does sound different from what I experienced with my BMW 7. Given that your AdBlue level is showing nearly empty, this could indeed be much simpler than my case. When my issue occurred, I actually had a full tank of AdBlue, which is what led us to discover the faulty delivery system. Here's a quick check you can do: Try adding about 10 liters of AdBlue first (you can get it from any auto parts store). After filling, wait about 5 minutes, then try starting the car. If it starts up normally, you've found your culprit, it was just running too low. My workshop mechanic told me these newer diesel BMWs are pretty strict about AdBlue levels and will prevent starting if they get too low. If adding AdBlue doesn't solve it, then yeah, you might be looking at a system component issue like I had. But let's hope it's just the simple fix! By the way, since you mentioned your mileage, mine was around 180,000 KM when I had my issue, so our cars are in a similar usage range. Keep us posted on what you find out!

Thanks everyone for your replies! Just wanted to update you all on my situation. I followed your advice and got some AdBlue from the auto parts store. Added about 10 liters as suggested and waited those 5 minutes before trying to start it again. Great news, the car fired right up! The error message has cleared, and everything's running smoothly now. Really glad it turned out to be just a low AdBlue level and not a system failure like what you experienced with your BMW 7. Going to make sure I keep a better eye on the AdBlue levels from now on. Definitely learned my lesson about letting it get too low! Thanks again for all the help, really saved me a potentially expensive and time-consuming trip to the workshop. Nice to know there are other BMW diesel owners out there willing to share their experiences!