Have you ever stepped out of your house, keys in hand, eager to get into your BMW for a drive, only to discover that the battery is flat? Battery drain problems are not fun to deal with, but some things can be done to help with this issue. Here is a list of some common battery problems, as well as the solutions to these issues.
How to Troubleshoot and Resolve BMW Battery Drain Problems
- Check for Parasitic Drains: A parasitic drain occurs when there is some device in your BMW that continues to pull current from the battery even when the car is not in use. To check for this problem, you will need a multimeter, which is a device that measures the flow of current. First, you should turn off your BMW, unscrew the nut on the negative terminal, and pull out the cable. After that, connect the multimeter to the negative battery terminal and the disconnected cable to measure the current. If it is on the high side, then you have a parasitic drain. To get to the source, start removing fuses one after the other and observe the changes in the multimeter. Once the reading is low, you have isolated the circuit that is pulling out the power. Check out all the parts on that circuit. If there is a problem with any of them, fix the problem or replace it.
- Test the Alternator: The job of your alternator is to recharge the battery each time the engine is in operation. If it’s not doing this properly, your battery might drain more quickly than usual. Alternator testing is a common service that is provided by many auto repair shops. Take your BMW to the shop and they can tell whether the alternator is functioning correctly. A weak or dim light, electrical failure, and a battery light warning on the car’s dashboard could also be a sign that the alternator is failing. If the test reveals that the alternator is bad, then getting a new one should help eliminate your battery drain problem.
- Replace an Old Battery: Car batteries normally last for an average of three to five years. If yours is older, it may not be able to retain its charge well. Look at the manufacture date of the battery. If it is more than three years old, then it is probably time to find a replacement. Ensure that you get a battery that is compatible with your BMW to ensure the best performance possible. Instead of fixing the battery yourself, it is best to have a local mechanic do it for you.
- Park in Moderate Temperatures: Another factor that influences the battery is the temperature; that is, both high and low temperatures. Parking your BMW in a garage is a good idea because it will shield your car from very low temperatures, as well as very high temperatures. In very cold climates, it is recommended to use a battery warmer. This device ensures that your battery is at a safe temperature to operate.
- Drive Longer Distances: Short trips do not allow the alternator to properly charge the battery. It is recommended to take your BMW for longer drives often. This is useful because it helps to charge the battery to its full capacity. If you have many small trips, it is better to do them in one large trip, combining all the distances into one.
- Disconnect Unnecessary Accessories: Items such as a dash cam, charger, and GPS device may drain the battery even when the car is not in use. Find out which of the accessories consumes current when the car is not running. Switch off these devices whenever you are likely to leave your BMW for a longer time. This minimizes the load on your battery.
Professional Help
If you have followed all these steps and your battery is still draining, then it is advisable to consult a professional. It is recommended that you visit a certified BMW mechanic with your car. The mechanic can check your car’s electrical system and diagnose the exact reason why the battery is not charging or losing its charge.
Trust Heynneman European With All Your BMW Services
At Heynneman European, we are glad 
to offer the best services for all BMW drivers’ needs. At our shop, we have skilled mechanics who understand the different causes of battery issues and can guarantee that your vehicle’s battery will be in the best shape. Our company is based in San Rafael, CA and we provide our services to Larkspur, Kentfield, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and Fairfax, CA. Don’t wait for the next time you experience the symptoms; visit us for your routine service appointment.
