hi, i`ve owned a 1999 316i for a few months now. This morning when i switched the key to the ON position (before actually starting the ignition) the needle on the rev counter started to dance about all over the place. Simultaneously i could hear something moving in the engine and making a type of clunking noise. Subsequently the car would not start. I managed after several attempts to start it but it died after only a second or two. This happened several times before i abandoned it.
Is there anyone on here who has any ideas as to what my problem might be? I`ve already had problems with the air flow sensor which i have currently disconnected and if this is a sign of things to come i might have a very short lived BMW driving experience.

Thanks in advance to anyone who can give me advice....

You disconnected the AFM? There's your problem. You need that to run! Seriously. I have never heard that in my entire life! Im only 22 though. Movment before the crank? Blame it on the Gremlins!