The BMW brand is well known to be technologically advanced in design, components, and accessories. The electrical system provides power to other systems of your car and like other systems, it may have issues.
The components of your BMW’s electrical system include:
The Battery
The battery stores a charge that helps the engine of your BMW start and operate various accessories in your car. The battery has positive and negative plates that release 12.6 volts. The lifespan of a battery in a favorable climate is 3 to 5 years. For extreme climates (hot or cold) a normal battery will last 2 to 3 years.
The Alternator
The function of the alternator is to produce energy that sustains the electric charge in your battery so that the different electrical accessories operate properly. These accessories include ignition and the system that controls the engine control. The operation of the alternator is done by a belt connected to the engine. The alternator produces an alternating current which is converted to a direct current which your car needs by a diode bridge. The alternator works only when there is a demand for energy from the vehicle light, radio, air conditioner, etc. The alternator is designed to last up to 4 years.
The Starter
The starter is an important and critical part of the electrical system. Its function is to start the process that begins the internal combustion process. The battery supplies voltage to the starter and it is controlled by a relay which is operated from the key switch. Age, poor electrical connection, and low battery power may affect the starter.
Causes of Electronic issues in BMW
The following are common causes of electronic issues in BMW.
Battery Problem
One of the most frequent causes of electronic issues in BMWs is from the battery. The battery of your BMW may die if you accidentally leave the lights of your car on for a long time or sometimes a battery that is old may have issues and may fail to start. BMW batteries generally last up to 4 years, so it is advisable to replace it when the validity expires. However, if you have a dead battery you can fix it temporarily with a jumpstart before you replace it.
Another cause related to the battery is when the battery terminals and cord connectors corrode as a result of exposure to moisture or debris on the road. When this happens, the connection becomes unreliable and inconsistent leading to a loss of power. Cleaning battery terminals would only provide a temporary solution, the battery would need to be replaced.
Alternator Problems
Electronic issues caused by alternator problems are evident by the fluctuation of power when driving. You’ll notice problems with the HVAC system, and headlight when you are driving. A bad alternator would prevent proper battery charging.
Damaged Cables
This is another cause of electronic issues in your BMW. Since the cables connect the parts of the electrical system, it would create issues. For example, a broken cable or bad wiring would send the power from the battery to other parts and this would make the battery appear faulty. It is important to make sure the wiring in your BMW is properly connected and working.
Fuse Failure
The fuse in your BMW function is to protect the car from bad electrical issues. When there is an electrical issue that should damage your car, the fuse blows thereby shielding your car from damage. If your car has an electrical issue, the fuse should be the first point of call to check. Blown or faulty fuses should be replaced.
Alternator Belt Damage
The function of the belt connecting the alternator is to control the output power in your car. It also helps to store and retain battery charge. If there is damage to the alternator belt of your car, it would be unable to regulate the power and also retain battery charge. This would lead to electrical failure.
DART Auto Will Repair Your BMW’s Electrical Problems
When the electrical system of your BMW has issues, 
it could be as a result of any of the above reasons. In order to know the exact cause, you need to bring your BMW to our professional mechanics at DART Auto! We provide excellent service to our customers in Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, and Denver, CO. Contact us today!
* BMW Steering Wheel image credit goes to: Nickbeer.
