1996 BMW 318i , E36 series, auto

1996 BMW 318I
1.8L • 4 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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STACEY16
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I have a 1996 BMW 318i E36 series auto. Easy to start. Fires first go however will not maintain idle. Runs rough then dies. Strong presence of fuel odour. Car is low on fuel and oil. Some extra fuel has been added and made no difference. Low idle when engine running. No matter what I try it will not stay started.

Any ideas of what is going on? Also approx repair costs?
Mar 18, 2014 at 11:31 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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If you smell fuel, have you checked for leaks? There could be a leak causing low fuel pressure at the injectors. Also, has the check engine light come on?
Mar 19, 2014 at 8:39 AM
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STACEY16
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no the check engine light is not coming on. yes my partner has checked all around for leaks. We had another look last night and have found a split hose near the silver clamp on the top of the engine that appears to be a huge contributing factor. When that split has been covered the car recovers dramatically.

Thanks so much for your help so far.
Mar 19, 2014 at 2:26 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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That would cause low fuel pressure to the engine. Check to make sure that pressure is within the manufacturer's specs.
Mar 20, 2014 at 6:54 AM
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STACEY16
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thank you so much for your replies and help. We have replaced that hose and serviced the rest of the engine. It is running like a dream again. Once again thanks guys. Really appreciated it.
Mar 20, 2014 at 11:57 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Glad to help.
Mar 21, 2014 at 6:56 AM