BMW X5 Battery Problems: Bad Sensor or Dead Battery?

Hey there! I have some experience with cars and went through something very similar with my 2018 BMW X3 (gas model). The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I dealt with last year. I initially thought it was just the battery, but my trusty mechanic diagnosed a faulty battery sensor. The sensor wasn't sending correct readings to the car's computer, causing all sorts of weird warnings and starting issues. Got it fixed at my regular workshop, they replaced the battery sensor and recalibrated the system. Cost me around 315 Euro, but it solved all the problems. Haven't had any issues since then. Just to make sure we're on the same page, can you share your exact engine variant and mileage? This would help me provide more specific advice since different X5 models might have slightly different setups. Quick tip: If you're getting these warnings, don't wait too long to get it checked. A faulty sensor can actually drain your battery faster than normal.

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience! My X5 has 31042 KM on it, and I just had it serviced recently. After reading your reply, I'm even more convinced it's the battery sensor causing these issues. The symptoms match exactly what you described. It's reassuring to know this is a known issue that can be fixed relatively easily. I'll definitely get it checked out soon, don't want to risk getting stranded somewhere with a dead battery! Did you notice any warning signs before the problems started getting serious?

Hey again! Yeah, looking at your mileage, it's very similar to when my issues started (I was around 33000 KM). Actually, now that you ask about warning signs, yes, there were some subtle hints before things got bad. I noticed that my start-stop function started acting weird first, it would sometimes not activate at all, or deactivate really quickly. Then I started getting unusual "Battery Charging" messages in the iDrive system, but they'd disappear after restarting the car. The really interesting thing was that my issues seemed to get worse during cold weather, the car would take just a fraction longer to start in the morning. Nothing major at first, but it gradually got more noticeable. Also, my parking sensors started acting up occasionally, which I later learned was related to the voltage fluctuations from the faulty sensor. One thing I'd suggest, while you're waiting to get it checked, try to avoid using the start-stop function if possible. Just manually disable it. This helped reduce the strain on my system before I got it fixed. But seriously, get it checked soon. Mine went from "minor annoyance" to "major problem" pretty quickly. The repair itself only took about an hour, and it was totally worth it to avoid potential bigger issues down the line.

Thanks so much for those extra details, they're super helpful! Come to think of it, I have noticed my start-stop function acting up recently, and the car has been a bit sluggish to start in the mornings. Can't believe I didn't connect these dots earlier. I've already called my mechanic and booked an appointment for next week. Definitely going to disable the start-stop function in the meantime like you suggested, that's a really smart tip! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. It's so much better going into the repair knowing exactly what to expect. Fingers crossed it'll be the same straightforward fix as yours!