Aftersales Training -

Product Information.
MSA automatic engine
stop and start.

BMW Service
The information contained in the Product Information and the Workbook form an integral part of
the training literature of BMW Aftersales Training.

Refer to the latest relevant BMW Service information for any changes/supplements to the
Technical Data.

Information status: June 2006

Contact: conceptinfo@bmw.de

© 2006 BMW AG
München, Germany
Reprints of this publication or its parts require the written approval of
BMW AG, München
VS-12 Aftersales Training
Product Information.
MSA automatic engine stop and
start.
Efficient environmental protection with
BMW

MSA - a DME/DDE function

DC/DC converter for even power supply

Notes on this Product Information

Symbols used
The following symbols are used in this Product Information to facilitate
better comprehension and to draw attention to important information.

3 contains information to facilitate better understanding of the

described systems and their function.

1 identifies the end of a note.

Information status and national variants

BMW vehicles conform to the highest safety and quality standards.
Changes in terms of environmental protection, customer benefits and
design render necessary continuous development of systems and
components. Consequently, this may result in differences between this
Product Information and the vehicles available in the training course.
Unless stated otherwise, this document describes left-hand drive vehicles
with European specifications. On right-hand drive vehicles, some controls
or components are arranged differently from the illustrations in this
Product Information. Further differences may arise as the result of the
equipment variants used in specific markets or countries.

Additional sources of information

Further information on the individual subjects can be found in the
following:
- Owner's Handbook
- BMW diagnosis system
- Workshop systems documentation
- SBT BMW Service Technology.
Contents.
MSA automatic engine
stop and start.
System overview 1
Introduction 1
Input/output diagram 2
System circuit diagram 4

Functions 7
Preconditions 7
Basic functions 8
Stop inhibitors and start compellers 9
System-related deactivation 13
Deactivation by MSA button 16
Energy management 17

System components 19
Components of MSA 19
Actuators 24
Indication concept 26
Integration of measure for stabilizing electrical
system 27

Service information 33
Notes for service staff 33

Summary 35
Points to remember 35
 5
System overview.
MSA automatic engine stop and start.

Introduction
The automatic engine stop and start function On those models, MSA will be standard
(MSA) is one of the measures aimed at equipment. The option SA1CC can also be
meeting the ACEA voluntary commitment, to ordered for controlling MSA.
which BMW subscribes, of reducing CO2
The MSA function is integrated in the engine
emissions by 2008. It lowers fuel consumption
management (DME/DDE). The MSA function
by automatically switching the engine off
makes use of a variety of existing data from the
when the car is stationary. The engine is
bus system. New sensors are also required for
subsequently restarted automatically as well,
proper functioning of the system. The input/
as soon as the appropriate conditions for
output diagram below provides a general view
restarting are satisfied.
of the most important input and output signals.
MSA is being introduced on the E8x, E9x and
R5x models in conjunction with manual
transmission and four-cylinder engines.

1
 5

Input/output diagram

1 - Input output diagram for automatic engine stop and start

2
 5

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Digital (petrol) engine management 8 Bonnet switch
module (DME)/
Digital diesel engine management
module (DDE)
2 Car access system 9 Seatbelt-buckle switch
3 Starter 10 Clutch switch, 90 % position
4 Instrument cluster 11 Clutch switch, 10 % position
5 Centre console switch cluster with 12 Brake servo vacuum sensor
MSA button
6 Wheel speed sensor 13 Gearbox neutral position sensor
7 Intelligent battery sensor (IBS) 14 Automatic climate control (IHKA)/
Climate control (IHKR)

3
 5

System circuit diagram

2 - System circuit diagram for automatic engine stop and start

4
 5

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Bonnet switch 8 Intelligent battery sensor (IBS)
2 Starter 9 Centre console switch cluster
with MSA button
3 Brake servo vacuum sensor 10 Automatic climate control
4 Gearbox neutral position sensor 11 Instrument cluster
5 Digital (petrol) engine 12 Car access system
management module (DME)/
Digital diesel engine
management module (DDE)
6 DC/DC converter 13 Clutch switch
7 Junction box (control unit with
power distribution box)

5
 5

K-CAN signals at the DME/DDE

In/Out Signal Source/Recipient Function

In Gearbox neutral position > Neutral position sensor Stop inhibitor and
> DME/DDE start inhibitor
In Brake servo vacuum > Brake servo vacuum sensor Stop inhibitor and
> DME/DDE start compeller
In Bonnet open/closed > Bonnet microswitch MSA deactivation
> CAS
In Change of steering angle > Steering-angle sensor Stop inhibitor
> EPS/AL
In Clutch pedal position > Clutch switch Start compeller when
10% > DME/DDE in neutral, stop
inhibitor
In Clutch pedal 90 % > Clutch switch Start compeller when
position > CAS in extended neutral
zone, stop inhibitor
In Driver's seatbelt >Seatbelt-buckle switch MSA deactivation
fastened/unfastened > ACSM

In MSA on/off > MSA activation/

>MSA button on centre console deactivation
switch cluster
> IHKA
In Battery status > IBS Stop inhibitor and
> DME/DDE start compeller
In Road speed >Wheel speed sensor Stop inhibitor and
> DSC start compeller
In Evaporator temperature > Evaporator temperature sensor Stop inhibitor and
> IHKA/IHKR start compeller
In Degree of misting > Misting sensor Stop inhibitor and
> IHKA start compeller
Out Display > DME/DDE Status indications
> Instrument cluster and CC messages
Out Start signal > CAS Engine starting
> starter motor

6
 6
Functions.
MSA automatic engine stop and start.

Preconditions
The MSA function can only be performed The basic condition for restarting the engine is
under certain conditions. that the manual gearbox is in neutral.
The engine is switched off if A precise description of all the conditions and
exceptions that determine whether or not the
• the vehicle is stationary (speed below 3 kph)
MSA can operate is provided in the section
• the vehicle has been driven at over >5 kph "Stop inhibitors and start compellers".
since the last time the engine was stopped
3 External conditions such as the outside
• the vehicle has been driven at over >5 kph temperature (MSA only operates at
since the last time terminal 15 was temperatures ≤ +3 °C) can result in the MSA
switched over function being unavailable for extended
periods. 1
• the manual gearbox is in neutral
The MSA function is always activated when
• the clutch pedal is not depressed
the engine is not running, terminal 15 is
• the steering wheel is not being turned switched on and a so-called "driving cycle" is
initiated. The MSA can be switched off by
• the engine speed is approximately idling
means of the MSA button. The MSA is
speed
automatically switched on again the next time
a driving cycle is initiated.
The engine is restarted in response to driver
action if
• the gearbox is in neutral (see section on
neutral position sensor) and the clutch
pedal is depressed (10 %)
• the gear lever is in the extended neutral
zone (see section on neutral position
sensor) and the clutch pedal is depressed
(90 %)

3 The engine is restarted without action by

the driver (applies only if switched off by MSA,
i.e. not if switched off by SST for instance) if
• the vehicle starts rolling (5 kph forwards or
backwards)
• the brake system pressure falls below a
defined threshold
• the battery charge level falls below a
defined threshold
• the misting sensor detects misting on the
windscreen (IHKA)
• the evaporator temperature exceeds a
certain threshold while the air-conditioning
compressor is switched on
1

7
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Basic functions

Provided all the preconditions are satisfied, the MSA functions as follows:

Vehicle is moving ... Gear is engaged ... Engine is running ...

Accelerator is depressed ... Instrument cluster shows time
and temperature.

Driver brakes until vehicle
comes to a halt ...
Driver puts the gearbox in
neutral ...
... and releases the clutch
pedal ...
Engine stops ...
The instrument cluster shows
the "Stop/Start" symbol.

Driver wants to move off again Driver depresses the clutch The appropriate gear can be
... pedal ... engaged and the car can
move off.
Engine starts ...
The "Stop/Start" symbol
disappears and time and
temperature reappear ...

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 6
Stop inhibitors and start compellers
The MSA function has to be suppressed
under certain conditions. The engine then
continues running even though the gear lever
Driver brakes until vehicle Driver puts the gearbox in
comes to a halt ... neutral ...
... and releases the clutch
pedal ...
Conversely, there are also situations in which
the engine must be started even though the
driver takes no active steps (e.g. pressing the
Start/Stop button or depressing the clutch).
3 Point out the possible start compellers (=
conditions requiring engine starting without
action by driver) if customers enquire. 1
Engine conditioning
In addition to its primary function, that of
providing the motive power for the vehicle, the
engine also has to perform a number of
ancillary functions. Those ancillary functions
are necessary for operational reliability,
comfort/convenience functions and exhaust
emissions compliance.
is in the neutral position and the clutch pedal
has been fully released.
Example: stop inhibitor
Engine continues running ...
A stop inhibitor is present and
the instrument cluster
displays the appropriate
symbol.
The following are possible stop inhibitors and
start compellers:
• Engine conditioning (stop inhibitor only)
• Battery status
• Electrical system power demand
• Climate control requirements
• Inadequate brake servo vacuum
• Inadequate power steering assistance (stop
inhibitor only)
• Various safety requirements (reverse gear
engaged, steering wheel movement ->
deceleration)
• Vehicle starting to roll
The following conditions prevent the engine
being switched off:
• Engine-coolant temperature below a
certain level (dependent on engine model,
approx. 20 - 50 °C)
• Activated charcoal filter must have been
flushed
• Engine not running at idling speed
i.e. > 900 rpm.
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 6

Battery status
The battery status is a fundamental factor The result can be either prevention or
affecting the existence of stop-inhibiting and requirement of MSA function. The following
start-compelling conditions. Computation of information may be signalled:
the battery status is performed by the
• Stop-inhibiting condition
Advanced Power Management (APM). That
function is integrated in the engine • Start-compelling condition
management (see Energy management) and
The MSA responds to battery charge level in
has been extended specifically for the MSA.
the following manner:
The aim is to ensure reliable engine starting
from an electrical system viewpoint after the
engine has not been running for a defined
period. Before the engine is switched off, a
reliable prediction of the minimum absolute
remaining usable capacity and the minimum
voltage level when subsequently restarting the
engine from warm is made. The APM
computes the status of the electrical system
on the basis of the following data:
• Battery status
– Charge level too low
– Charge level implausible Index Explanation
– Battery temperature too high 1 In the green zone, the MSA can
function fully
– Starting voltage dip too low on previous
MSA start 2 In the yellow zone, the engine is
not switched off
• Power demand from electrical equipment in
use 3 In the red zone, the engine is
started

3 If the battery charge level drops into the

red zone after the MSA has switched the
engine off, the MSA restarts the engine. 1

Alternator capacity utilization

Reduced alternator output capacity or a high switched off and which can/must not be
level of power demand from the electrical reduced or switched off by the APM results in
system (I > 60 A) as an average immediately a stop inhibitor.
before the point at which the engine would be

10
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Climate control requirements

Heating mode • Automatic air conditioning: Defrost button
pressed and compressor activated
If the engine coolant temperature is
significantly below the required temperature • Air conditioning: high fan setting and air flow
for heater fan operation it is treated as a stop directed onto windscreen and compressor
inhibitor. In heating mode while the engine is activated
not running, the electric auxiliary water pump
If the misting sensor signal indicates that the
(N47) or main electric water pump (N43) is
windscreen is misting, MSA is inhibited if the
activated. The demand is signalled by the
air conditioning is switched on (stop-inhibiting
climate control panel via the bus system.
condition). If this occurs when the engine is
switched off, a start demand is issued.
Air-conditioning mode
If the evaporator temperature rises above a
In certain situations it is necessary to ensure
defined threshold when the engine has been
that the air conditioning compressor
switched off by the MSA and the air
continues to provide cooling capacity so as to
conditioning is on, this constitutes a start-
dehumidify the vehicle interior and lower the
compelling condition.
temperature. The following stop inhibitors
may be brought to bear: 3 The engine may be started without any
action by the driver (pressing the Start/Stop
• Automatic air conditioning: MAX AC button
button or depressing the clutch pedal).
pressed
If the evaporator temperature is above a
• Air conditioning: high fan setting and low fan
defined threshold when the air conditioning is
output temperature and compressor button
on, this constitutes a stop-inhibiting or start-
pressed.
compelling condition.
The MSA has to be inhibited if there is a
If the engine has been switched off by the
demand for windscreen defrosting. This is
MSA, a less comfortable interior climate may
detected by:
result (dampness/odour). 1

Inadequate brake servo vacuum

In order to ensure there is always sufficient the engine is automatically restarted, i.e. if the
braking power (even when the engine is vacuum drops below 500 hPa while the
switched off) the vacuum in the brake servo engine has been stopped by MSA.
has to be continuously monitored. If required,

Power steering
The engine can not be switched off as long as
the steering wheel is being turned. In such
situations, there must always be power
steering assistance available. Only when the
MSA does not detect steering wheel
movement on the basis of the signals from the
steering column switch cluster can the engine
be switched off. The information is provided
via the bus system.

11
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Safety requirements
Preventing automatic engine starting Preventing the engine being switched off
when work is being carried out in the if the vehicle is moving
engine compartment
On no account must the engine be switched
If the bonnet is opened, the MSA is off if the vehicle is moving. The engine can not
deactivated in order to prevent the engine be switched off until the vehicle speed is
being started automatically when work is below 3 kph.
being carried out in the engine compartment.
Preventing automatic engine starting
It is always possible to start the engine with the
when the drive is engaged
Start/Stop button.
If the drive is engaged on a vehicle with manual
Reactivation of the MSA is possible once the
transmission, automatic engine starting must
bonnet has been closed and either the engine
be prevented.
has been started or the vehicle speed has
reached 5 kph. Detection of when the drive is disengaged is
performed by means of the gearbox neutral
Preventing automatic engine starting if position sensor.
the driver has left the vehicle
If the driver gets out of the vehicle, the MSA is
deactivated in order to prevent the engine
being started automatically.
The driver's seatbelt buckle is monitored for
that purpose.
• If the driver's seatbelt buckle is unfastened,
the MSA is deactivated. The engine can not
be switched off by the MSA until the
seatbelt buckle is fastened again and the
vehicle has reached a speed of > 5 kph
once (stop inhibitor only). Caution: the
engine can be started despite the seatbelt
being unfastened and the bonnet being
open if the vehicle speed exceeds 5 kph.
• If an automatic start demand is issued, a CC
message is generated.
• Reactivation of the MSA is possible once
the driver's seatbelt has been fastened and
either the engine has been started or the
vehicle speed has reached 5 kph.
The signal indicating the status of the
seatbelt-buckle switch is provided by the
safety system via the bus system.

12
 6

System-related deactivation
The MSA can also be deactivated for system-
related reasons. A CC message is displayed to
the driver on the instrument cluster if a start
request is received.
The following deactivators can be responsible
for system-related deactivation:
• Seatbelt-buckle signal
• Bonnet switch
• Engine emergency mode
• Implausible sensor or bus signals
• Vehicle being towed
• Key not detected (Comfort Access)

Driver brakes until vehicle
comes to a halt ...
Driver puts the gearbox in Driver unfastens seatbelt ...
neutral ...
The MSA function is
... and releases the clutch deactivated, the engine
pedal ... remains off ...
Engine stops ... The engine only restarts if the
driver presses the Start/Stop
button.

Response to deactivation by a safety function

If the MSA is deactivated by a safety function Start/Stop button and if the road speed
after the engine has been switched off by the exceeds
MSA, the engine can only be restarted by the 5 kph.

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Response to deactivation by system faults (emergency mode

concept)
If a fault in the MSA system complex (signal immediately deactivated and automatic
inputs, actuator systems, bus signals ...) is restarting of the engine is no longer
detected, a stop inhibitor is set or the MSA possible.
deactivated.
2. If other types of fault are detected (DME/
Thus, detection of a fault while the engine is DDE emergency mode, etc.) which are
running prevents the MSA subsequently not safety-critical, the MSA is allowed to
switching the engine off at any time. If the start the engine once more.
engine detects a fault after it has been Subsequently, however, the MSA is no
switched off by the MSA, the following longer permitted to switch the engine off.
scenarios are distinguished:
3. If faults in bus communication with the
1. If a safety-related fault is detected (fault DME/DDE engine management module
on neutral-position sensor, brake servo are encountered, the MSA is deactivated.
vacuum sensor, clutch sensor, enable
signal line, bonnet switch or driver's
seatbelt-buckle switch), the MSA is

If the MSA is deactivated due to a system fault, the instrument cluster

displays a CC message (ID397).
Instruction as to further action required (take car to dealer) ID397.

Deactivation due to external conditions

If the seatbelt is unfastened or the bonnet opened after the engine
has been switched off by the MSA, the MSA is deactivated and the
engine can only be restarted by the Start/Stop button or if the road
speed exceeds 5 kph. If the driver attempts to start the car by
depressing the clutch, CC message ID450 is displayed after 1-2
seconds.

14
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Signal path in electrical system

The Car Access System (CAS) is only a In addition, clearance for starting is also
subordinate control unit in this situation and signalled via a separate line. The CAS
does not perform any calculations of its own compares the two signals. If the time lag
for clearing engine starting. between the two signals exceeds a certain
limit, the MSA is not allowed to start the
The information for engine starting clearance
engine. A fault memory entry is registered.
is transmitted via the bus system in the first
instance:
• DME/DDE
• PT-CAN
• Junction-box ECU
• K-CAN
• CAS.

1-

15
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Deactivation by MSA button

The MSA function can be manually Every time the engine is restarted, the MSA
deactivated by means of the MSA button, in function is reactivated.
which case the LED in the button lights up.

Button not pressed Button pressed; driver wants MSA

deactivated
-> LED off
-> LED on

Driver brakes until vehicle Driver puts the gearbox in Engine continues running ...
comes to a halt ... neutral ...
... and releases the clutch
pedal ...

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 6
Energy management
Availability when engine switched off by MSA
When the engine has been switched off by the
MSA, excessive power consumption must be
avoided. Therefore, all large consumers of
electricity are switched off, or their
consumption reduced. The displays remain
active.
Availability while engine is started by MSA
There are restrictions to the following
functions while the engine is being started by
the MSA: After the engine has been started,
automatic sequences are continued.
• Power windows
• Windscreen wipers
• Sliding sunroof
• Interior and exterior lights
The following are switched off:
• Rear window heater
• Mirror heaters
• Seat heaters
The following are adjusted to the situation:
• Heater fan
The automatic climate control (IHKA) is
responsible for adjusting the heater fan.
If the power windows or sunroof are in the
middle of an automatic sequence when the
engine is started, the sequence is interrupted.
Once the engine has been started, the
automatic sequence is continued.
The windscreen wipers are also briefly halted
while the engine is started.
The following functions are not restricted in
any way:
Playback of:
• discs
• radio
• TV
17
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18
 7
System components.
MSA automatic engine stop and start.

Components of MSA
As already set out in the system overview, the The following components are necessary for
MSA function involves a complex system of the MSA:
interactions across the entire bus system.
• System's own sensors
However, the information required is provided
by existing signals from other systems. – Brake servo vacuum sensor
– Manual gearbox neutral position sensor
– MSA button
• External sensors, e.g.
– Clutch switch
– Bonnet switch
– Seatbelt-buckle switch (driver)

Brake servo vacuum sensor

The brake servo vacuum sensor supplies
voltage signals proportional to the vacuum
present (see graph).

1 - Vacuum sensor

In order to ensure that there is sufficient

vacuum for brake servo assistance at all times, 2 - Voltage proportional to vacuum

the brake servo is fitted with a vacuum sensor. 3 If there is insufficient vacuum, the MSA
The brake servo vacuum sensor is located starts the engine even without action by the
next to the brake servo and is connected via a driver. 1
separate lead.

19
 7

Manual gearbox neutral position sensor

The neutral position sensor is mounted on top
of the gearbox housing and its purpose is to
detect when the gear lever is in the neutral
position. The neutral position sensor is a
PLCD (permanent-magnet linear contactless
displacement) sensor.

3 - Manual gearbox neutral position sensor

4 - Method of operation of
neutral position sensor

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Digital (petrol) engine 3 Magnet
management module (DME)/
Digital diesel engine
management module (DDE)
2 PLCD sensor 4 Gear-shift linkage rod

Moving the gear lever moves the gear-shift

linkage rod and, therefore, the magnet. The
DME/DDE is able to detect the position of the
gear lever by means of the PLCD sensor.
The following distinctions have to be made for
the purposes of the MSA function:
• Gear engaged - MSA function disabled
• Gear lever in neutral position - MSA starts
5-
engine if clutch is depressed by 10 %
• Gear lever moved slightly out of neutral Index Explanation
position - engine is started if clutch 1 PLCD sensor learning zone
depressed by 90 %
2 Engine started if clutch
depressed by 10 %
3 Engine started if clutch
depressed by 90 %
20
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The learning sequence (orange) is necessary
to compensate for tolerances in the
mechanical and electrical systems.
The DME/DDE then calculates the maximum
ranges relative to the learned gear-lever
neutral position within which the engine can
be started if the clutch is depressed.
When the clutch is fully depressed, the engine
can still be started when the gear lever is
deflected by up to 1.89 mm (10 % PWM).
The PLCD sensor is provided with a 5 V power
supply. The output voltage is a PWM signal
MSA button
The MSA button can be used to deactivate
the MSA system. If the terminal 15 signal
changes to on when the engine is not running
The signal from the MSA button is received by
the IHKA and passed on to the engine
management.
whose pulse duty factor changes according to
the position of the gear lever (10...90 %).
The neutral position sensor has to complete a
learning phase. If the DME/DDE is replaced,
the learned data can be copied by reading the
learned position using the diagnosis system
(provided the old DME/DDE can be read)
before the unit is replaced and then writing it
to the new unit.
The learning sequence is described in the
BMW diagnosis system.
or if the MSA button is pressed again, the
MSA is reactivated.
6 - MSA button
The indicator lamp is controlled by the IHKA.
21
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Clutch switch

7 - Clutch switch

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 10 % clutch pedal depression 2 90 % clutch pedal depression
detected detected

The existing clutch switch signal is used as an

input variable for the MSA.
Two statuses are registered:
• 10 % clutch pedal depression
• 90 % clutch pedal depression

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Bonnet switch
The bonnet switch signal is taken into account
as a determining factor in the MSA
calculations. If the bonnet is open, the engine
must not be started or stopped by the MSA for
safety reasons.
3 If the bonnet switch is defective
(continuously signals "open"), all MSA
functions are suppressed. 1
3 If the top of the bonnet switch is covered
over (workshop mode), it signals "Switch
closed". The MSA function is active. Caution:
the engine may be started automatically. 1

8 - Bonnet switch

Seatbelt-buckle switch
The seatbelt-buckle switch enables the MSA
to detect if the driver's seatbelt is fastened. If
the driver's seatbelt is not fastened, the MSA
responds in different ways depending on the
vehicle status.
• If the engine is running, a stop inhibitor is
set
• If the engine has been switched off by the
MSA, the MSA is deactivated. The engine
can only be restarted by means of the Start/
Stop button.

9 - Seatbelt-buckle switch

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Actuators
The MSA indirectly operates the starter motor
and indicator lamps/CC or display messages
on the instrument cluster.

Starter

10 - Starter

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Forked lever: reinforced, 6 Planetary gears: more direct
armoured transmission
2 Relay armature: lubricant coated 7 Planetary gears: needle roller
bearings
3 Relay springs: greater number of 8 Planetary gears: sintered internal
cycles gear with damper
4 Starter motor (+electrical 9 Pinion: number of teeth
system): uprated, higher power increased
5 Magnets: higher flux/ 10 Drive shaft bearing: needle roller
demagnetization resistance (high bearing
torque)

With the MSA, the starter motor has The components of the starter motor have
significantly more work to do. Therefore, it has been adapted to the higher demands (see
been dimensioned for substantially more key).
(approx. 8 times as many) starting cycles.

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Indicator lamp
There are a number of new indications that
provide feedback from the MSA for the driver.
The possible MSA indications are detailed in
the next chapter.

11 - Indicator lamp

Alternator
Due to battery discharge while the engine has
been switched off by the MSA, a more
powerful alternator is fitted.

12 - Alternator

Battery
The MSA always comes together with
intelligent alternator control (IGR). Due to the
substantially more frequent charging and
discharging cycles, the load on the battery is
very high. AGM batteries provide the
possibility of achieving a similar service life
despite the high loadings because they have a
higher recharging capacity.
On the E87 and E90, AGM batteries with a
capacity of 80 Ah or 90 Ah are fitted,
depending on equipment levels.

13 - Battery

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Indication concept
The following indications are used in
conjunction with the MSA:

If the engine can be started by the MSA, that status is

continuously indicated on the instrument cluster. If the driver
wants to see the time and temperature, the indication can be
suppressed by pressing the computer roller.

If there is a fault on the MSA hardware that causes the MSA to be

deactivated, a CC message is displayed.
Text of CC message: "Automatic stop/start has failed."
ID397

If the MSA is deactivated to ensure functional safety ("Seatbelt

buckle unfastened"), another CC message is displayed as soon
as a start compeller is present:
Text: "Automatic stop/start deactivated."
ID450

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Integration of measure for stabilizing electrical system

As a result of the substantially more frequent The DC/DC converter requires the following
starting cycles, there are correspondingly control signals:
more voltage dips in the electrical system due
• Terminal 50
to the electrical load.
• Terminal 15
In order to stabilize the supply voltage for
particularly voltage-sensitive electrical • Terminal 30g
components and thereby protect them, a DC/
• Terminal 30g_f ON
DC converter is used in conjunction with the
MSA. • Terminal 30g_f OFF
The DC/DC converter supplies the terminal The terminal 50 signal is provided by the CAS,
30g_DC/DC and terminal 30g_f_DC/DC relays the terminal 15 and terminal 30g signals by
with a constant voltage even during a starting the junction-box ECU.
cycle.
The DC/DC converter has a diagnosis output
(PWM signal) that provides the following
coded information:
• Converter OK
• Converter defective
• Converter overheated
The diagnosis lead is read and analysed by the
JB.

Location
The DC/DC control unit is in the electronics
box in the engine compartment.

Design
The DC/DC control unit contains the
electronic circuitry for converting the voltage
and the terminal 30g_f_DC/DC and terminal
30g_DC/DC relays.

27
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System circuit diagram for DC/DC converter

14 - System circuit diagram for DC/DC converter

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Car access system 3 Junction-box ECU
2 DC/DC control unit 4 Junction-box power distributor

In addition to terminals 30g_DC/DC and

30g_f_DC/DC, the terminals 30g and 30g_f,
and therefore the terminal relays, are retained.

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Terminal management
Voltage-sensitive electrical components are
supplied with a matched voltage when
necessary. That supply is only provided under
certain conditions (starting cycle and voltage
below 10.5 V). Otherwise, the connected
control units are supplied with the normal
electrical system power supply diverted
through the DC/DC converter.

15 - Terminal management

Index Explanation Index Explanation

1 Electrical system power supply 4 DC/DC control unit
under various loads before DC/
DC converter
2 DC/DC converter 5 Junction-box power distributor
3 Electrical system power supply
under various loads after DC/DC
converter

29
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DC/DC control unit
Inside the DC/DC converter is the actual
converter module that, depending on
conditions, provides either a matched voltage
Index Explanation
1 Bypass switch
2 DC/DC module
3 Diagnosis lead
4 DC/DC converter
5 Stabilized electrical system
voltage
The DC/DC module uses the input voltage
testing leads and terminal 50 to decide
whether to supply the DC/DC terminals via the
bypass or the DC/DC converter.
The relays 30g_DC/DC and 30g_f_DC/DC are
also accommodated in the DC/DC control unit.
30
or the normal electrical system power supply
voltage for the terminals 30g_DC/DC and
30g_f_DC/DC.
16 - DC/DC control unit
Index Explanation
6 Input voltage subject to electrical
system fluctuations
7 Input voltage testing leads
8 Terminal 50 data lead
9 DC/DC module power supply
The terminal 30g and terminal 30g_f relays are
retained in the power distributor.
The DC/DC control unit basically operates in
the following modes:
• Boost mode
• Bypass mode
 7

Bypass mode
In bypass mode, the electrical system power converter. A bypass passes it straight through
supply is not fed through the DC/DC to the outputs of the DC/DC converter.

Boost mode
In boost mode, the electrical system voltage is • Terminal 50 on/off
adjusted. The decision as to when stabilization
• and input voltage at the DC/DC converter.
is necessary/possible is dependent on the
following factors:

Terminal 50
Boost mode is activated if terminal 50 is on The blue line represents a typical voltage
and the voltage drops below 10.5 V. As soon progression when the engine is started.
as terminal 50 is active, the DC/DC converter Depending on external factors, the voltage
goes into a standby mode in order to improve may drop as low as 7.5 V.
response characteristics. Not until the voltage
The red line shows the voltage provided by the
drops below the defined threshold of 10.5 V is
DC/DC control unit.
boost mode activated and the matched
voltage supplied to the terminal 30g and 30g_f
relays.

17 - Typical voltage
progression when engine
is started

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32
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Service information.
MSA automatic engine stop and start.
Notes for service staff
3 The MSA only operates under certain
conditions (see Functions/Preconditions). If
complaints are received from customers,
those conditions must always be checked. 1
3 If the top of the bonnet switch is covered
over (workshop mode), it signals "Switch
closed". The MSA function is active. Caution:
the engine may be started automatically. 1
3 The MSA relies on information from the
energy management system. If the battery is
replaced, or any time the unit is flash
programmed, reference data relating to the
charge level and health of the battery may be
lost.
Only after a learning period of approx. 6 hours
(bus system must be in sleep mode) is that
data available again. During that learning
phase, he MSA cannot be activated for
reasons of reliability. 1
3 If MSA system faults are registered, the
automatic engine stop start function is
deactivated on principle (before making any
replacements, it is essential that sensor
malfunction is established by a function
check). 1
3 After any work on a vehicle with MSA that
involves any of the following operations, the
MSA function is deactivated until the new
quiescent current/battery parameters have
been learned. The MSA reactivates itself
automatically. Customers should be made
aware of this.
• Disconnection of the battery
• Programming of the engine management
(not in all cases).
1
3 Always follow the appropriate safety
precautions when working on cars with MSA!
Always make sure that the MSA function is
switched off before carrying out any hands-on
work on the engine in order to prevent the
engine being switched on automatically when This Service information can be
working in the engine compartment! (Function found in the introduction, the system
overview and the system
is disabled by: deactivating by MSA button/ components section.
seatbelt unfastened and driver's door open/
bonnet open.)
Handling safety risks: in most test modules
that do not test the MSA function but rather
individual component functions and/or leads,
the MSA function is switched off for safety
reasons until the next change of terminal
signal. This is done automatically, i.e. a routine
that temporarily deactivates the MSA is
executed without the Service technician
having any control over it.
Background: under certain conditions and in
the worst-case scenario, i.e. if the seatbelt-
buckle switch/bonnet switch/MSA button is
defective, the MSA is not automatically
deactivated. If the Service technician carries
out work in the engine compartment, this
could, under certain circumstances, result in
the engine starting automatically -> impending
danger.
This is as follows:
"Note: Always follow the appropriate safety
precautions when working on cars with MSA!
Always make sure that the MSA function is
switched off before carrying out any hands-on
work on the engine in order to prevent the
engine being switched on automatically when
working in the engine compartment! (Function
is disabled by: deactivating by MSA button/
seatbelt unfastened and driver's door open/
bonnet open.)
To continue ... press right arrow."
Safe mode is now activated. You can continue
with the test module.
To continue ... press right arrow."
33
 8
OR
Safe mode could not be successfully
activated. Continuation of work is forbidden for
safety reasons!
Test module terminated. Continue testing
sequence." 1
3 The tester diagnoses cover the following
components:
• Neutral position sensor
• Brake servo vacuum sensor
• Both clutch switches
• MSA button
• Power management relevant to MSA
• DC/DC converter relevant to MSA in CAS.
There are also three Service functions for
checking the software functionalities.
Examples
Before carrying out a diagnosis or replacing
components it is essential to have a detailed
discussion with the customer.
Customer says: "My engine has not (or only
rarely) switched off in recent weeks despite
being stationary for long periods."
You ask: How high was the outside
temperature? Is the battery in good condition?
Customer says: "My engine starts up of its
own accord while the car is stationary."
You explain: The engine can be started
automatically by the MSA under the following
conditions:
• If the brake servo vacuum is too low
• If the battery charge is too low
• If the evaporator temperature is too high
• If the windscreen is misting too much
Customer says: "The radio switches off
while the engine is being started."
34
Additional points:
• Diagnoses for the following units involved in
the MSA system complex: wheel speed
sensor, instrument cluster, battery and IGR,
power management, Junction box, IHx,
CAS, DME/DDE and seatbelt buckle cannot
be entirely covered by MSA diagnoses. The
relevant system diagnoses should be used
in those cases.
• Diagnosis cannot be performed on the
bonnet switch and therefore it cannot be
represented on the tester.
3 Signal testing:
There are two new testing adaptors available
for testing the signals of the two new sensors:
• Adapter for X88 (neutral position sensor)
• Adapter for X126 (brake servo vacuum
sensor) BA
1
You explain: The DC/DC control unit is
responsible for voltage stabilization for the
entertainment system. We should do a system
check. The faults are stored in the junction-
box ECU memory.
Customer says: "When I get out of the car a
CC message appears."
You ask: Is the customer using the MSA stop
function when leaving the car (e.g. parking in
the garage)?
When the seatbelt is unfastened, a CC
message is generated because the MSA
assumes that the journey is going to be
continued.
 9
Summary.
MSA automatic engine stop and start.

Points to remember
The table below summarizes the most
important information on the subject of the
automatic engine stop and start function.
The list outlines the main points in concise
form and provides the opportunity for
rechecking the most important facts provided
in this Product Information.

Preconditions

Information on everyday theoretical

The MSA function can only be performed under certain conditions. and practical applications.

The engine is switched off if:

• the vehicle is stationary (speed < 3 kph)
• the vehicle has been driven at over >5 kph since the last time the
engine was stopped
• the vehicle has been driven at over >5 kph since the last time
terminal 15 was switched over
• the manual gearbox is in neutral
• the clutch pedal is not depressed

The engine is restarted in response to driver action if:

• the gearbox is in neutral (see section on neutral position sensor) and
the clutch pedal is depressed (10 %)
• the gear lever is in the extended neutral zone (see section on neutral
position sensor) and the clutch pedal is depressed (90 %)

The MSA function is only active at an outside temperature of at least

+3 °C and no more than +30 °C (if air conditioning is on) while the
steering wheel is not moving and the engine is running roughly at idling
speed

Gearbox neutral position sensor

The gearbox neutral position sensor and brake servo vacuum sensor
are new and only required in conjunction with the MSA for system
control purposes.

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DC/DC converter

The DC/DC converter stabilizes the power supply voltage for voltage-
sensitive electrical equipment during the engine starting cycle.

36
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