BMW X3 Windshield Heating Failure: Common Solutions

Hey there! I've got some experience with BMWs, as I own a 2012 BMW X1 (my second Bimmer after having an X5). I'd say I have low experience with car repairs, mostly handling basic maintenance. Had a similar heating issue last winter. Turned out my battery was completely drained, which caused electrical problems including the windshield heating malfunction. My trusted mechanic diagnosed it right away, the original battery was done for and needed replacement. The whole thing, including diagnostic and new battery, cost me 290 Euro. Before jumping to conclusions though, what's the exact error code you're getting? Also, are you experiencing any other electrical issues like slow starter motor or dim lights? These details would help figure out if you're facing the same problem I had. Let me know these details and I can share more about what my mechanic did to fix it.

Thanks for the detailed reply! Just had my latest service two months ago, currently at 33990 KM. Getting the same symptoms you mentioned, slow starter and dimmed lights. The error code is E-4567 (just checked). Been driving this X3 for years and this is the first major electrical issue I'm facing. Your battery theory makes a lot of sense since I've never changed the battery since buying it used. Really appreciate you sharing your repair costs, helps me budget for the fix. Did your mechanic mention how long the new battery should last? I want to avoid this happening again.

Hey again! Wow, those symptoms are exactly what I experienced with my X1. The E-4567 is the same error code I got too, which definitely confirms we're dealing with the same battery-related issue here. Since you mentioned you've never changed the battery since buying it used, that's almost certainly your culprit. These BMW batteries typically last about 4-5 years, and when they start failing, they cause all sorts of electrical gremlins, including the heating issues we both faced. My mechanic actually told me something interesting, BMW batteries need to be "registered" with the car's computer system after replacement. That's why it's worth going to someone who knows BMWs. The new battery he installed has been working perfectly for about 18 months now, and he said I should expect it to last around 5-6 years with normal use. One tip from my experience: after getting the new battery, pay attention to short trips. My mechanic mentioned that frequent short drives without giving the battery enough time to recharge can significantly reduce its lifespan. I've started taking slightly longer routes when possible to keep the battery happy. Keep us posted on how the repair goes! Based on your mileage and service history, I bet you'll see a huge difference once you get that battery sorted out.

Thanks so much for all this info, you've been super helpful! Really good to know about the battery registration thing, definitely wouldn't have known that. Just called my regular mechanic and booked it in for tomorrow morning. They quoted around the same price range you mentioned, which is a relief. The tip about short trips is really valuable too. I do a lot of quick runs to the store and back, so that's probably contributed to my battery issues. Will try to combine my errands into longer trips from now on. Actually feeling pretty relieved it's just a battery issue and not something more serious with the electrical system. I'll definitely update the thread once it's fixed, but really appreciate all your help getting to the bottom of this! Sometimes these car issues seem way scarier until someone else shares their similar experience.