2008 X5 3.0si - electrically

[LennyBoy1]

X5 - Alpine White - 3.0si

Hi,

Our X5 has had a few battery/electrical issues recently...
See
* We have only owned since Aug 2020 (however, it has been well maintained at Vancouver BMW and Saskatoon BMW). Ever since we purchased the X5, it has always started but the starter has always seemed to turn over slowly (rur...rur...rur...rur....then starts!)
* About 2 months ago, my wife said the clock display and radio needed to be reset. This happened 2 or 3 times. (I believe this is the battery control system shuts down all accessories to save voltage)
* Shortly after that, about 2 months ago, I replaced the battery with a recommended size battery for this X5.
* Starter still turned over the same (rather slowly - no difference from old battery)
* I bought an Bosch OEM remanufactered starter SR0492X - 779 03817 (but I haven’t installed yet - waiting till Xmas vacation when I have lots of time!)
* This morning my wife noticed the battery warning light was displayed after starting it. She turned it off again. I just checked the voltage under the hood and it was 11.25v before starting (that is low, should be 12.6) and then I started it and voltage climbed to 12.5 at idle and about 14.5-15v at 2000rpm.

I am wondering if I have a parasitic draw on the battery that draws the voltage down? She says it starts even slower if vehicle sits in garage for a few days not being used.

I still plan to change the starter because of how it always turned over slow but maybe that isn’t my main issue. Maybe there is another issue causing the voltage drop..?

Things I’ve considered replacing:

* Alternator (but seems to be charge good at 14.5v-15volts?)
* Grounding straps or cables
* Red Battery distribution block that sits on top of battery
* Starter (ordered and plan to replace soon anyway)

What else would your friends in the Service Department recommend? Or have found to a common problem on the E70 X5?

Thanks in advance for your help !!