In the good old days when your BMW battery died one could go to the local auto shop, pick up a new one, replace it at home and get back on the road. Unfortunately, with the late model BMW's battery replacement is not as simple yesteryears. The new batteries need to be replaced by a dealer or qualified Euro specialist with the right tools to either register or program the car to your new battery. Failure to do so can result in overcharging of your new battery or even electrical malfunction.
What model BMW’s need to have their batteries reprogrammed or registered?
- 2002 and newer 7-Series E65/E66 chassis
- 2003 and newer 6-Series E63/E64 chassis
- 2004 and newer 5-Series E60/E61 chassis
- 2005 and newer X5 E53 chassis with N62 engine
- 2006 and newer 3-Series E90/E91/E92/E93 chassis
- 2007 and newer X5 E70 chassis
- 2008 and newer X6 E71 chassis
Why do new model BMW’s need battery programming and old ones do not?
The newer BMW models listed above are significantly more advanced electronically than models from the 1990s and older. All of the advancement is ultimately pushed forward in the name of improving gas mileage. The newer models are equipped with IBS or Intelligent Battery Sensors. The IBS system is attached to the negative battery terminal and contains micro processors which measure and monitor voltage, current, charge and discharge as well as temperature of the battery.
How does the IBS system help improve fuel efficiency?
The IBS system is used primarily for the start stop function which eliminates the burning of fuel while at complete stop, also reducing CO2 emissions. The IBS system continually analyzes the charge of the battery system and intelligently charges it only when needed. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the motor does not need to spin the alternator thus improving efficiency of the engine and gaining more miles per gallon.
What does registering the new BMW battery do?
As your battery ages and loses charging capacity, the car adjusts how much it needs to recharge it to operate at an optimal level. The older the battery the more charge is required. Putting a new battery in your BMW and registering your battery tells your car that a new battery is installed. As a result, the car will not overcharge the new battery thinking the old one is still in there. Registering the battery also resets battery statistics based off your old batteries temperatures and behaviors wiping the slate clean.
What does programming the BMW battery do / What is the purpose of registering a BMW battery?
If you are swapping out your BMW battery for a new one with different amperage and or voltage specs, the car needs to be told this so it can adjust for the new battery settings and not damage your car’s fragile electrical system. As a result, reprogramming will need to be done.
What if I skip programming or registering my new battery / Is registering a BMW battery necessary?
Skipping this step WILL shorten the life of the battery as well as potentially damage your vehicles electrical system. The new battery will become overcharged as the car still thinks the old battery is installed. This can potentially cause damage to the car’s alternator. Your car may also throw off warning lights as indicators of these issues.
Who can register or program a BMW battery?
Any BMW dealership will be able to program or register your new BMW battery as well as authorized BMW shops. Special software and plugs are required to perform this process and is best left to the hands of professionals. Luckily, the process is straight forward and a routine job for these shops. As a result, the cost isn’t outrageous and you get the peace of mind knowing your car is serviced and as BMW designed it to be.
Why does BMW have to do this and be a huge pain?
BMW is not the only manufacturer doing this. With the stricter emission standards set by the government it is only a matter of time before all car manufacturers will eventually go to this new intelligent battery system. With hybrid and full electric cars becoming more popular the electronic systems are becoming so advanced the maintenance can only be done by qualified technicians with specialized tools.
Where can I learn more BMW fun facts
Learn more interesting facts about your BMW by clicking HERE
