BMW Battery
An important part of the BMW electrical system is the battery. Modern BMWs rely on the battery to start the engine, operate various electrical systems, and power electronic components. Your vehicle may not start without a functioning battery, and essential electrical systems may not work either.
At RS Autotechnik, we understand how important it is for our customers to know what’s going on inside their luxury vehicles so they can make sure they are kept in top condition for years to come.
In this blog post, we provide you with all the information and advice you need to ensure your BMW’s battery is running at peak performance. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of maintaining your BMW battery, as well as how to extend its life and identify the signs of battery failure.
Let’s jump right into it!
How the Battery Inside Your BMW Works
BMW batteries play an important role in the electrical system of your vehicle. The following are some of its primary functions:
- Starting the engine: The battery provides the initial electrical power required to start the engine when you turn the key or press the start button. It supplies the electrical energy to the starter motor, which then makes the crankshaft turn inside the engine, allowing the engine to ignite and your BMW to start running.
- Powering electrical systems: Lights, infotainment systems, air conditioning, power windows, and many other BMW components and systems are powered by the battery. Even with the engine off, the electrical systems are still able to operate.
- Storing energy: Battery charge is provided by the alternator during engine operation. When the engine is switched off or when the alternator’s output is faulty, the battery stores this electrical energy for later use.
- Powering different electronic systems: Many electronic systems are present in modern BMWs, including engine control units, safety features, and driver-assistance technologies. The battery provides the necessary electrical power for these systems to function correctly.
- Voltage stabilisation: The battery maintains the stability of electrical systems. In addition to absorbing voltage fluctuations, it ensures a steady supply of electricity to the electric components inside your BMW.
As a whole, the BMW battery ensures that the various electrical systems work properly. The battery must be maintained regularly in order to ensure that your vehicle starts smoothly and that all electrical systems are working correctly. Regularly maintaining and checking the battery will ensure its long-term health.
Identifying a Failing Battery
As car batteries age, they can develop symptoms of failure that affect their performance. Knowing these symptoms and taking preventative measures is the best way to avoid being stranded with a dead battery.
Here are some warning signs to look out for:
- Failure of the battery may cause the engine to crank slower or take longer to start. The worst-case scenario is that it may not start at all.
- Turning the ignition key and hearing a clicking sound means that there is not enough power available to start the engine. The battery could be drained because you have unnecessarily left other electrical systems on, such as leaving a light on, thus draining the battery.
- It may be an indication that the battery is weak if the headlights and interior lights are dim. Another possibility is that the alternator is not charging the battery adequately.
- An illuminated dashboard battery warning light indicates a problem. Additionally, there are also other warning lights that may indicate that an electrical system is malfunctioning.
- When the battery in the car is dead, the radio and other electrical components of the vehicle may not work properly.
- If the battery isn’t supplying enough power, the engine can suddenly stall. Additionally, when this occurs, the power steering and brakes may not work, which can be extremely dangerous.
- Corroded or damaged terminals can affect a battery’s ability to charge and discharge. As a result, starting the engine or operating its electrical systems could be impacted.
The moment you notice any of these symptoms, you should have your battery checked immediately. If you are looking for specialised BMW battery care, RS Autotecknik can help. Contact our friendly reception team today for a battery replacement service.
BMW Battery Types
The type of battery BMW uses varies by model and year. In general, the following types of batteries are most common:
- Lead-acid batteries: Many vehicles are equipped with lead-acid batteries. They are relatively inexpensive and have been around for a long time.
- Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries: These batteries are more expensive but they last longer and perform better than lead-acid batteries.
- Lithium-ion batteries: In newer BMW models, lithium-ion batteries may be used. As well as providing more power over a longer period of time, these batteries are lighter and smaller.
- Gel batteries: High-performance BMW models often use gel batteries instead of AGMs.
Our team at RS Autotechnik understands the importance of choosing the right BMW battery. With our experienced team of BMW experts, we can identify and select the right battery for your BMW. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
The Wrong BMW Battery Can Cause Serious Problems
When you choose the wrong battery for your BMW, you can risk both performance and safety. Here are some examples:
- Reduced battery lifespan: Batteries not designed for your specific BMW may require more power, so the battery wears out faster, resulting in more frequent battery replacements.
- Reduction in performance: Wrong batteries can also result in poor performance. Weak batteries may cause trouble starting your car or malfunctions with electrical systems.
- Safety issues: Many safety systems in your BMW are powered by the battery, including airbags and ABS brakes. It is possible that these systems may not function properly if you use a battery that is not designed for your make and model of BMW.
- Warranty problems: Using a battery that’s not recommended by the manufacturer may void the warranty on your car. If your BMW develops electrical or battery problems as a result, this could cost you a lot of money.
In order to maximise performance, safety, and reliability in your BMW, you need the correct battery. For optimal performance, longevity, and warranty protection, our team at RS Autotechnik will recommend and install the right battery for your BMW model.
Extending the Life of Your Battery
Make sure your BMW’s battery lasts as long as possible by following these expert tips:
- Drive your car often: Battery failure is often caused by lack of use. If you do not drive your BMW regularly, your battery may degrade from insufficient charging. For a healthy battery, drive your car at least once a week.
- Limit short drives: Due to frequent engine starts and recharging, short trips can drain BMW batteries. Make your trips shorter and combine journeys whenever possible.
- Make sure the battery terminals are clean: Dirty or corroded battery terminals can interfere with a battery’s ability to charge and discharge. By regularly cleaning the terminals with a wire brush or battery cleaner, corrosion and dirt won’t build up.
- Switch off all electrical systems when not using them: The battery can be drained if the radio, lighting, or other electrical systems are left on when the engine is off. In order to conserve battery power, turn off these systems when the engine isn’t running.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: In extreme cold, a battery’s ability to hold a charge may be diminished, and in high temperatures, its degradation may be accelerated. Whenever possible, park your BMW in a garage or shaded area so that your battery is protected from extreme temperatures.
- Regularly check and examine the battery: Checking the health of your battery regularly can help you identify and address potential problems early on. If your BMW is exhibiting any signs of weakness or battery failure, bring it to RS Autotechnik so our BMW experts can assess and resolve the problem.
In addition to ensuring optimal performance and reliability, these expert tips will also help extend the lifespan of your BMW battery.
In a Nutshell…
Maintaining the battery in your BMW is essential for ensuring its safe and efficient operation. With this guide, you can easily inspect and maintain your battery to enhance its performance and extend its lifespan.
Follow the expert tips and techniques discussed for maintaining your BMW battery, such as switching off all electrical systems when not in use and limiting short trips, to keep it in good working condition. At RS Autotechnik, we ensure that your BMW battery always performs at its peak. If you need a routine inspection or a new battery, you can count on us for all your BMW battery needs.
In the event that you notice signs of battery failure, don’t delay. With BMW maintenance from us, you can keep your BMW running smoothly and reliably. Call us today to book your BMW for an RS Autotechnik battery service.
