Optima Battery - Does it fit?
 

Some members suggested modifying the bracket, any details?

My 2nd oem battery died this morning and the dealer noted on my records they will not replace again since I added an aftermarket DVD system. The first battery lasted 2 years and the same with this one.

I need to try another battery - it can't be coincidence they both died in such short time.

I know a couple people have them, not sure which one though. If I remember correctly, Drex has one.

A couple of thoughts; I'm not sure the Optima battery will give you longer life, they are known for greater cranking power. Your two dead batteries may be an anomaly, is your car subject to temperature extremes? Most batteries should be good for 4 to 5 years at least. You may consider a new battery offering a warranty. The dealers not wanting to replace your battery because of an aftermarket DVD is pretty hard line, I'd fight it

Go to batteries plus and pick up the same OEM battery that is made for your X5 but not badged BMW for ~$90.00. When I bought mine there it was under the name "Werker".

Are you still under the factory warranty? If so, they can not seny warranty unless the dealer can prove the aftermarket DVD was the cause of the failure. If you don't get satisfaction, I would call BMWNA Customer service to get it straightened out.

I live in NY and the winter can be harsh on batteries. I do not use the car much but I try to keep the battery charged using a battery tender. I'm still under warrranty but from my experience and reading several other post the OEM battery is not the most reliable. Maybe I was suppose to add water every 2 yrs, but from looking at the battery I'm not exactly sure how or even if its worth the effort.

Instead of trying a 3rd time, I went with the Optima from pepboys for $120. 3yrs free replacement warranty and then 84 month pro-rated.

The battery dropped right in, I used my spare rubber hitch cover (left side of the battery) to allow the bracket to snugly hold the battery in place using the second screw hold from the right.

http://static.flickr.com/41/102287008_35ca63d53c_b.jpg

The old OEM battery - with a dark 'dead' black status eye

http://static.flickr.com/26/102287009_3ca77438da_b.jpg

Is the Optima battery smaller than OEM? What are its ratings?

Yes its smaller in size but more powerful at starting:

Optima = 800 CCA (CA 1000)

OEM = 640 CCA

The Optima Red Top is the pwn. I've got it in all of my cars(except the X5, it's too new). It's small, dense, heavy, cranks like a champ, and lasts forever. I had one that I bought used last for 5 years.

Don't let the 800 CCA fool you. They guys at Interstate Battery hooked it up to show me they are actually over 1000 CCA.

YMMV of course.

It looked like the Optima is sealed...so it's maintenance free? Unlike the OEM. Good to know that there's an alternative :thumbup:

You are correct sir. Sealed and maintenance free.

Can be mounted sideways, lengthwise, shortwise, upside down or even reg'lar...