Modern Buddy

My 170i is a year old and has around 4200 miles. Lately it's intermittently taking longer to start. Sometimes when I push the start button the engine turns over and starts right away. Other times it will turn over for several seconds before starting.

Does this sound like a battery issue or something else? I will take it to the dealer soon, just wondering if I should push back if they immediately suggest I need a new battery.

If the battery is strong enough to turn the engine over for several seconds, I'd day it was fine. You could always have it load tested at a local Autozone store or other auto parts store that offers such service.

Have you checked the condition of the sparkplug?
Is the fuel filter clean?
The air filter?
Oil level ok?
Good electrical connection on the ignition coil?
Water in the gas tank?
Bad gas?

Though remote, there might be an issue with your ignition key switch making intermittent electrical contact.

Thanks, I appreciate the reply. Hopefully the dealer can test the battery and if it's not that start looking elsewhere. If they can't I'll take it to an autozone.