Mysterious electrical problems!

[imtheneal]

So the other day I went to turn on my X5 and noticed that it started but it was a weak start as well as rumbling of the engine. I turned it off and tried to start again and no luck. Tried to jump and no go. Checked all the fuses and nothing.

I was going to jump it again when I noticed that the rubber/plastic surround on the positive terminal in the engine compartment was melting from so much heat. I moved it around a little bit and then started my car and it fired right up.

It is still doing the same thing and I am really concerned that there may be a short somewhere. Any ideas? also once in a while my audio cuts out on my right side. (dont know if that is related).

How much does it normally cost to diagnose electrical issues like the one I have? Has anyone experienced a similar problem?

I have a 2002 X5 3.0 (e53) with 228,000 miles

[JCL]

If the positive terminal was loose or dirty, it would have a high resistance, which creates heat. That could be your problem. Oh that all X5 issues were things like that.

Clean it, tighten it, and see if that helps.

[imtheneal]

Hmm i have never cleaned it before, what is the best way you would recommend to clean it?

[JCL]

Loosen and remove it. Use either a contact cleaner, or emery cloth. Reinstall.

It it is getting hot, it has high resistance (a bad connection). Simple fix.

[imtheneal]

sounds great I will give that a try tomorrow. Should I disconnect the battery in the trunk area first or is it ok to just disconnect the positive terminal and work on it?

[pezho405]

Could be alternator, Check how much voltage youre running through your dash obc while this ids all happening..