Electrical/Audio problem

[tomcat]

2005 4.8iS 75,--- mi.
Hi all. Yesterday ran to Wal Mart. When I returned to the X it would start to crank, then flash a bunch of lights, click, and make a beeping sound. Sat a while to let it charge a little and still couldn't get it to start. Finally went in and bought one of those battery quick chargers. Been meaning to for a while so I figured "why not today?" Got her started fine and drove home. Today started fine, but I now have no audio except for front right and rear left speaker. Battery is less than 3 years old and amp is about 4 years old. I realize I may need to check my alternator for the starting issue, but what about the radio/amp?

Thanks,

Scott

[Big "J"]

Hey Scott! Had similar issues/ electrical gremlins and the alternator was on the way out. Changed it and all was good!

Good Luck!

[tomcat]

Thanks J. Went out to run errands and everything was fine for about 5 minutes then lost speakers again. I'll start running test 9 every time i go out now. Just did battery disconnect/reconnect and works but sure it will rear it's ugly head again. Better go check my piggy bank.

Scott

[jgold47]

BMWs of this vintage have sensitive electrical systems. New battery sounds like it will solve your problems.

[Qsilver7]

Also check battery (TEST 9 w/ignition in position 1 & door closed) just before starting a cold engine and keep track of the battery's voltage...as well as keeping TEST 9 up and running after starting the engine so you can see any major fluctuations that may indicate a flaky alternator/regulator.

Another thing to check is...see if you have removable caps to check the battery's fluid level Sometimes a battery may look as if it is sealed and there may be removable caps underneath a sticker or label that has the brand name or other information printed on it. If you do have removable caps...then definitely check the battery's fluid level and top off with DISTILLED water only if you see any cells that are low.

_

[admranger]

Sounds like a battery issue, as has been stated.

Don't just replace the alternator or battery blindly. Both can be tested, usually for free, at Pep Boys or other auto parts place.

[tomcat]

Thanks All,

Scott

[Roadhouse]

When you then find out battery and alternator are fine, the fun starts

Going through similar issues myself (2004 4.8is) and at this very moment it is at the shop on the diagnostics machine. Hoping for a miracle but expecting an expensive phone call shortly!

Will post up results under my "dead 4.8" thread.

[tomcat]

Well it's looking more like a battery issue. Pulled it last night to check liquid levels and they were fine. Put it back in and started playing music without starting the vehicle. After about 2 minutes sound went underwater then cut off. Now won't even start with jumper. Very frustrating as this battery is less than 4 years old but of course over 30 months (warranty). Interstate. Thanks again for the help.

Scott

[tomcat]

Just to update. Battery was dead so replaced it. Sound was still screwed up (only front passenger speaker worked). Finally sent the BM53 to Carphonics in London, UK a couple of weeks ago. Now all is well (knock on wood).

Scott