BMW Battery Maintenance
BMW’s are packed with crucial components and systems that all play important roles in ensuring your safety and comfort while driving. Every part, regardless of its size, from the smallest spark plug to the largest fuel pump, is vital for your BMW to run exactly as it should. At Roade Main Garage, we know all this and understand exactly what we have to do to keep these luxury vehicles in top condition through regular maintenance.
In this blog post, we are taking a look at a hugely important part of the BMW – its battery. We will explore the significance of preserving your BMW’s battery condition, delve into identifying signs of battery failure, discuss the different types of batteries used in BMW models, and offer valuable tips for prolonging your BMW’s battery lifespan.
So, let’s get into it…
Battery Maintenance is Important For Your BMW
The battery in your BMW serves as a power source for numerous components such as the engine control unit, dashboard, transmission control module, anti-lock brakes, sensors, fuel pump, and starter motor. Among them, the starter motor plays a particularly significant role as it kickstarts the engine’s operation.
When the battery begins to deteriorate, critical safety features such as headlights and brake lights may cease to function. These are typically the first signs of a declining battery, meaning it’s time to prioritise battery maintenance.
Therefore, it is imperative to include regular battery health checks as part of your weekly maintenance routine to ensure your BMW is in perfect working order.
The Signs of BMW Battery Failure
A deteriorating BMW battery can display symptoms of failure that significantly impact its performance. To avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery, it is crucial to be aware of these signs and take preventive action if they arise.
Pay attention to the following indications:
- Delayed engine turn over or difficulty starting the engine. If the battery is completely discharged, the engine won’t start at all.
- A clicking sound when turning the key is a sign of not enough power in the battery to start the engine. This can be caused by an old or drained battery, often due to excessive use of electrical systems or leaving lights on.
- Dim headlights and interior lights may suggest low power from the battery. It could also suggest a problem with the alternator, which recharges the battery when driving.
- An illuminated battery warning light on the dashboard shows a problem with the battery. Other warning lights related to the vehicle’s electrical system may also illuminate.
- A malfunctioning car radio or other electrical components, such as electric windows, can be a consequence of a weak battery being unable to provide sufficient power.
- Insufficient power can also result in unresponsive power steering and brakes while driving.
- Damaged or corroded battery terminals can affect the battery’s ability to charge and discharge. This can make starting the engine or operating electrical systems challenging.
If you observe any of these signs, it is important to have your battery inspected. Our skilled technicians at Roade Main Garage can assess the issue and provide a tailored solution for your BMW. Why not book an appointment today? Give our friendly reception team a call.
BMW Battery Types
BMW incorporates a range of battery types in their vehicles, depending on the specific model and production year. Let’s explore the most common battery types found in BMWs:
- Lead-acid batteries: This is the most affordable and reliable battery type used in BMWs and many other vehicles.
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries: These batteries contain a glass mat separator instead of a liquid electrolyte. This design enhances performance and longevity compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, albeit at a higher cost.
- Lithium-ion batteries: These batteries offer more power output for longer durations and are more compact and weigh less compared to conventional lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries can be found in newer BMW models.Â
- Gel batteries: These batteries use a gel electrolyte instead of a liquid electrolyte. Gel batteries can be found in high-performance BMW models as an alternative to AGM batteries.
At Roade Main Garage, we understand that BMW uses various battery types to power its luxury vehicles, with each battery tailored to specific models and their requirements. It is essential to select a battery that matches your BMW’s make and model to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Our team is available to assist you in choosing and fitting the right battery for your BMW.
BMW Battery Selection Guide
Choosing an incorrect battery for your BMW can have negative consequences for its performance and safety. Let’s explore some examples:
- Reduced lifespan: Opting for a battery that is not designed for BMWs can result in an inadequate power supply. This can lead to accelerated wear and a shorter lifespan for the battery, meaning more frequent replacements.
- Poor performance: Selecting the wrong battery can cause performance issues. A weak battery can cause difficulties starting the vehicle or malfunctions in the electrical system.
- Safety concerns: Many safety systems in your BMW depend on the battery, such as airbags and ABS brakes. Using batteries not designed for your BMW may mean not enough power is supplied to these systems, compromising your safety on the road.
- Warranty implications: Your BMW’s warranty could be void if you use a battery that is not recommended by the manufacturer.If your BMW encounters electrical or battery-related problems in the future, this decision could cause significant expense.
By selecting the correct BMW battery, you can ensure optimal performance, safety, and reliability. At Roade Main Garage, our team of experts will assist you in choosing and installing the appropriate battery that is specifically tailored to your BMW model. Book an appointment today!
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your BMW Battery Health
To evaluate the condition of your BMW battery, follow these instructions:
- Park your BMW on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Open the bonnet and locate the battery. In most BMW models, you can find the battery in the engine compartment on the driver’s side.
- Inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or damage. If they appear dirty or corroded, use a battery cleaner or wire brush to clean them.
- Using a voltmeter to measure the battery’s voltage, start by connecting the positive (red) probe of the voltmeter to the positive battery terminal and the negative (black) probe to the negative battery terminal. A healthy battery should display a voltage reading of 12.6 volts or higher.
- If the voltage reading falls below 12.4 volts, it may indicate a weak battery that needs to be charged. Attempt to charge the battery using a battery charger or drive your BMW for an extended period to allow the alternator to recharge the battery.If the voltage reading is significantly below 12 volts, it is time to replace the battery.
Follow these steps to ensure you keep your BMW battery in top health. If you have any questions or require assistance, our knowledgeable team at Roade Main Garage are on hand to assist you.
Battery Life Extending Tips For Your BMW
If you want to enhance the lifespan of your BMW battery, you should consider the following suggestions:
- Drive regularly to keep the battery charged.
- Combine short trips into longer ones to give the battery time to recharge fully.
- Turn off electrical components when not in use.
- Keep the battery terminals clean.
- Avoid extreme temperatures by parking in shaded areas or a garage.
- Schedule regular maintenance checks with a reputable garage such as Roade Main Garage.
Following these tips will help maintain a healthy battery and ensure reliable performance in your BMW.
Conclusion
To guarantee the safety and top performance from your BMW, it is essential to prioritise your battery maintenance. By incorporating maintenance practices such as regular terminal cleaning, minimising short trips, and switching off electrical components (like the radio) when not in use, you can significantly prolong the health and lifespan of your battery.Â
Whether you require professional battery maintenance or a replacement due to battery failure, our team of experts at Roade Main Garage are ready to provide the assistance you need. Schedule an appointment for BMW maintenance today. We are committed to delivering the top-quality service your BMW deserves.
