E46 m3 smg not starting easily

[Motorsport3]

i got into my car this morning and went for a short drive. I parked and returned 15m later, got in and turned the key to start the engine. And nothing happened. Tried it again and again and a few trials later it started as normal. Returned home and a few minutes later went back to give it another try and again the same problem. I had to turn it a few times before it started.
It's important to note that it wasn't as if the battery was low or smth. When i was turning the key it wasn't even attempting to start.
I know i have to have it in Neutral and press the brake pedal to start it, but is there a sensor in the pedal that can go wrong or smth? The filling i had was like the car didn't know i was stepping on the brake pedal.

Anyone with similar experience and potential solution?

[essayer]

Was the gear indicator flashing?
Quite possibly the bonnet switch, SMG won't start if the bonnet is open. Give it a slam shut and try again.

[taz devil]

have you tried another key could be the battery in the keyfob not holding charge and when you have it in the ignation its putting in a bit of charge for the Immobiliser to switch off
i have similer thing with my x5 if i use the key with dead battery wont start up immoblliser stays on

[Motorsport3]

Great tip - I will change the battery on the key and try again. I didn't open the bonnet for a while but will give that a go as well.

Cheers guys.

[bimmer_87]

essayer said:

Was the gear indicator flashing?
Quite possibly the bonnet switch, SMG won't start if the bonnet is open. Give it a slam shut and try again.

SMG will start with the bonnet open, just won't go into gear, same issue if your door is open.

[Captainawesome]

Does it have aftermarket brakes??? I had a car with k-sport brakes and it required a fairly hefty shove (more than you would expect) for the car to realise that you had your foot on the pedal. I now have a car with standard brakes and have never encountered the same problem.