sarahmoon1
BMW 2 Electrical Issues: Multiple System Failures
Summary of the thread
A 2016 BMW 2 diesel is experiencing electrical issues, including difficulty starting, multiple system failures, and dim or flickering lights, with diagnostic results showing undervoltage errors. The problem may be due to a failing battery, even though it was replaced two years ago, possibly exacerbated by frequent short trips or extreme temperatures. Suggested solutions include checking both the battery and alternator, ensuring the new battery is registered with the car's computer system, and inspecting all electrical connections and ground points.
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4 comment(s)
sarahmoon1 (community.author)
Thanks for your input! Yeah, my car has 194942 KM and I just had it serviced last month. You're right about it being similar to your situation. I was hoping it wouldn't be the battery since it's relatively new (changed it about 2 years ago), but these symptoms really point in that direction. Did your mechanic mention anything about checking the alternator as well? Just want to make sure I'm covering all bases before heading to the shop.
peterdrache1
Hey again! Thanks for the follow-up. Yeah, I totally get your concern about the battery being only 2 years old. Actually, when I dealt with my issue, my mechanic did check the alternator, it's always smart to look at both since they work as a team. In my case, even though my battery was the culprit, they tested the alternator's output just to be thorough. Interestingly, with these newer BMWs, I've learned that even a 2-year-old battery can start showing issues if it's been through a lot of short trips or extreme temperatures. My mechanic explained that modern BMWs are pretty demanding on their electrical systems because of all the fancy electronics. When they fixed mine, they actually used a special diagnostic tool to register the new battery to the car's computer system, apparently that's a BMW thing. Make sure your shop does that too if you end up needing a replacement. One other thing, while they were at it, they checked all the connections and ground points too. Might be worth having them look at those as well. Sometimes it's the simple stuff, you know? Let me know what you find out when you get it checked. Always curious to hear how these things turn out!
sarahmoon1 (community.author)
Thanks so much for all that detailed info! That's really helpful to know about the battery registration system, I had no idea BMWs needed that. I've actually booked it in for tomorrow morning, and I'll definitely mention checking all those points you brought up. It makes sense about the short trips affecting battery life, I do a lot of those for work. You've given me a much clearer picture of what to expect, which is exactly what I was hoping for when I posted. Will update you once I know what's going on with mine. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience!
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peterdrache1
Hi! I have some experience working on cars, and I faced a very similar issue with my 2014 BMW 3 diesel last winter. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I dealt with. I initially tried jumpstarting it, but the problems kept coming back. Took it to my regular workshop, and they diagnosed a failing battery that wasn't holding charge anymore. They replaced it with a new one, and all those annoying symptoms disappeared completely. The whole thing cost me 290 Euro, but it was worth it for the peace of mind. Could you share your car's mileage and whether you still have the original battery? These details would help determine if we're looking at the same issue. I know how frustrating these electrical gremlins can be with BMWs, but this is usually a straightforward fix.