Originally Posted By Gambalunga
You should be able to read what the ECU is seeing as the engine temperature in real time using an OBD2 reader. I use an OBD2 II ELM327 adaptor and Torque Pro for Android.

You can get Torque Pro from Google Play and the OBD2 adaptor from dozens of sources on ebay or Amazon. I would get one in the USA if I was you so it can be returned if it doesn't work. Don't buy a cheap one. Even the more costly versions don't cost much.

Using this you would be able to see all the sensors in real time including the MAF sensor. If something is not working correctly you should be able to pick it up.

If you have an Android tablet (easier to read than a small phone)you can set up a console showing the gauges you want to check and attach it somewhere where you or a passenger can see it.

PS. If you have Apple there are similar apps available but you will have to buy a WIFI adaptor as Bluetooth on Apple often does not work with these devices.


Peter-
Thank you for the suggestion. I have an OBDII reader for Android, OBDLink. A few weeks ago I logged an error for a invalid coolant sensor reading. The only other code I've logged was C0200, which doesn't correlate to anything I can find for the M62.

Neilda- It's not a stupid idea. If it is stupid I'm as stupid as you. I pulled the battery off and let the power drain. No luck.

More info for you to mull over: The confusing bit is that it fires up and runs perfectly well after the car has been sitting for ~5 hours. If I start it, and leave it running for more than 10 minutes it will not restart. When it is "cranking but not starting" it might "fire" once, this pushes exhaust that out has a strong smell of gasoline.

Is there a diagram for how to remove the grill and bonnet? I could not find it while searching...sorry for the dumb question.