So my wife drives the Z3 and she tells me that in the morning the battery idiot light stays lit for a few minuutes after she starts and drives the car. I inspected the battery and discovered that the secondary positive battery cable (to the airbag control module??) was very warm to the touch and had seemingly melted a hole in the red plastic cover over the positive battery terminal.
Not having a BMW dealership in our town I took it to a local speciality shop for advice. They told me the damage to the positive feed cable was due to corrosion causing resistance and heat, they also put a test meter on the battery and said that the alternator is taking an unusual amount of time to kick in and start charging the system (30 seconds +/-). Additionally they said it is putting out too much voltage (14.25 volts).
The car has a 2.5 engine and currently has a 90amp alternator. To replace the alternator and repair the damaged wire is going to cost $475! YIKES
So, I am looking for advice on:
1. Where to get an alternator - They were quoting $305
2. Is it difficult to replace my self - I have lots of tools and a good working knowledge of how to use them
3. Any other info anybody can offer
Thank you all in advance :thumbup:
Charlie
Not having a BMW dealership in our town I took it to a local speciality shop for advice. They told me the damage to the positive feed cable was due to corrosion causing resistance and heat, they also put a test meter on the battery and said that the alternator is taking an unusual amount of time to kick in and start charging the system (30 seconds +/-). Additionally they said it is putting out too much voltage (14.25 volts).
The car has a 2.5 engine and currently has a 90amp alternator. To replace the alternator and repair the damaged wire is going to cost $475! YIKES
So, I am looking for advice on:
1. Where to get an alternator - They were quoting $305
2. Is it difficult to replace my self - I have lots of tools and a good working knowledge of how to use them
3. Any other info anybody can offer
Thank you all in advance :thumbup:
Charlie