Battery Drain

[LasVegas325]

Does anyone have any idea how long the battery on a 325i (March 2003 production model with 1,200 miles on it), with alarm engaged, should last before it needs re-charging?

I ask because we went on holiday for two weeks, and upon our return, the battery was dead and required a jump start. The mechanic that gave us the jump-start said that "it's normal for 325's battery to run down after not driving it for more than two weeks". He also said that the drain is a result of the alarm. Nuts I say! Our other car (a 1997 Dodge) has been left for up to six weeks with the alarm engaged and, without fail, has always started.

Might this be a BMW-wide problem with its 2003 325i's or might this be an isolated incident?

Any comments and/or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[peterkulesza]

utter nonsense. do not know of this problem, but if it were widespread, you'd hear about it from millions of pissed off people.

i'd replace the battery and observe.

peter

[Ski]

Originally posted by peterkulesza@Oct 6 2003, 11:45 AM
utter nonsense. do not know of this problem, but if it were widespread, you'd hear about it from millions of pissed off people.

i'd replace the battery and observe.

peter

I concur..

[mikey8888]

What year is your 325i? Starting in the March 2003 production. They have a problem with the climate control computer. The problem was that IF you changed two or more thing the unit stays on, even when you shut the engine off... To Fix this prob, after you turn your ignition off turn it back on to the on position and then back off.
I had the same problem, But on mine it was about 3 days before the thisng was dead... I did the work around and no problems since.
The stealership that there is no fix for it yet... n

[AZ325Ci]

welcome aboard LasVegas325!! B)

i don't think the alarm system would drain your battery that quick. here are some possible problems if your battery is fairly new:

1) short circuit draining battery
corrective action: test for excessive current drain with everything electrical off.

2) short driving trips and high electrical drain on charging system does not allow battery to recharge.
corrective action: evaluate driving style. where possible, reduce electrical consumption when making short trips.

3) drive belt(s) worn or damaged
corrective action: inspect or replace multi-ribbed belt(s).

4) battery faulty
corrective action: test battery and replace if necessary.

5) battery cables loose, dirty or corroded
corrective action: clean or replace cables.

6) alternator or voltage regulator faulty
corrective action: test alternator and voltage regulator.