I have a 1985 245ti with about 190K on it. I have had the car for about 9 months with no problems to speak of, until tonight..............

Wife was driving on freeway and called me in distress. While exiting the freeway, oil lamp came on and stayed on. Engine steadily lost power until she came to a stop. Thinking she was out of gas, she walked to nearest station and went back with a gallon and put it in. Engine cranked but did not start. Electricals ok, hazard lights and radio on. I called AAA and met them at the scene of the breakdown.

When we got the car home (towed), first thing I checked was the oil--it shows almost a quart down, but no more.

Tried the key in the ignition: it "tries" to crank, but starter makes a buzzing sound i have never heard on any car before.

Fuses: looked ok, until I started spinning them: in tank fuel pump fuse metal very soft, so replaced it. Still no start, still same buzzing from starter.

Is the engine seized and the buzzing sound the starter spinning and self-destructing because it cannot turn the engine? Or could it be possibly something less heartbreaking? Maybe just fuel system problem? And what diagnostic tests could I do here at home to determine?

Thanks for your attention.