The load on the system varies fully depending on what is on.. like headlights, seat heaters, ac blower speed etc. Your X5 has a few years on it, and the alternator likely just got old. BMW's have a high electrical demand due to all the extra shit that makes it a BMW, and have BIG alternators to compensate, whose output is controlled by the DME. As good of alternators as BMW builds, the components aren't indestructable... and will still wear over time.

The biggest thing that shortens the life of the alternator and battery is the system voltage not being properly maintained, usualy from short trips with high load.

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X5 pics

RIP 4.6is.....

2003 4.6is