MPA Electrical 12179 Starter Motor

Starter for BMW 318i, 325i, and M3

MPA Electrical Part Number 12179 is a remanufactured 12-volt starter built for select BMW applications from 1991-1999. It uses a permanent magnet gear reduction design with a 1.4 kW rating, clockwise rotation, and a 9-tooth drive for direct replacement service.

This remanufactured MPA Electrical starter is built for Bosch/Marelli applications and is listed for BMW 318i, 318is, 318ti, 320i, 325i, 325is, 525i, 525iT, and M3 models in the covered years. Part number 12179 is also referenced by Carlson 17236 and 17405 for the same application.

Key Features

• Permanent magnet gear reduction starter design
• 1.4 kW output for 12-volt starting systems
• Clockwise rotation
• 9-tooth drive configuration
• Built for Bosch/Marelli applications
• Remanufactured for select BMW starting systems

Detailed Description

MPA Electrical 12179 is a remanufactured starter for BMW vehicles that use the Bosch/Marelli starting system architecture. The permanent magnet gear reduction design supports efficient cranking performance, while the 1.4 kW rating and 12-volt specification match the electrical requirements of the listed applications. This starter is cataloged for BMW 318i, 318is, 318ti, 320i, 325i, 325is, 525i, 525iT, and M3 models across the 1991-1999 range, including 1996-1999 BMW 318i with unthreaded mounting ears.

Use part number 12179 when searching for a remanufactured BMW starter for 1991-1995 BMW 318i, 1991-1995 BMW 318is, 1995 BMW 318ti, 1992-1995 BMW 320i, 1992-1995 BMW 325i, 1992-1995 BMW 325is, 1991-1995 BMW 525i, 1994-1995 BMW M3, and 1993 BMW 525iT applications. This part cross-references Carlson 17236 and 17405 for the same application.

What It Helps Solve

• Slow or weak engine cranking
• No-start conditions caused by starter failure
• Intermittent starter engagement
• Grinding or improper drive engagement from a worn starter
• Electrical starting issues on BMW 12-volt systems

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the vehicle’s starter configuration before ordering, especially for 1996-1999 BMW 318i, 318is, and 318ti models with unthreaded mounting ears. Confirm clockwise rotation, 9-tooth drive count, and Bosch/Marelli application details against the original unit before installation. Match the starter to the vehicle’s year, model, and mounting style for proper fitment.

Quality Assurance

MPA Electrical identifies this unit as a remanufactured starter for the listed BMW applications. The remanufactured construction is intended to restore the starter to service-ready condition for the specified fitment range.