Fixing your dead battery problem in the X5.
 

In this months Roundel they made mention of the fact that, of course, BMW batteries suck and yes they will drain in a month of not driving. Since most companies do not officially offer a direct BMW battery replacement, Roundel mentioned that the Interstate MTP-93 will fit the X5 and the MTP-91 will fit most newer BMW's.

Just a FYI for the folks.

I just read that article today as well and folded in the page since I still have the original battery. :thumbup:

Thanks for that.

good to know.. my battery indicator is black and I'm having stereo issues which someone alluded to being caused by a poor charge. I'm hoping it fixes the stereo issue when I get a replacement.

Anyone know how much a BMW OEM battery runs for the X5?

Quick answer, more then the Interstate replacement and the OEM one doesn't last as long.

Thanks for the tips...very good info!

Recent quote...



I searched the battery replacement posts and found some interesting posts. Some indicate simple swap, while others mention many different steps, including reprogramming the computer.

Dealer wants $122 for new battery and $99 to install; claims, “Labor intense job”.

I have replaced the batteries in three other BMWs and they were all a simple remove old and install new (all were OEM replacements).

Is that the case with the X or does the computer need reprogramming after new battery is installed?

Thanks,
drs

With the E53, no reprogramming is required.

With the E70, the manual cautions that following a vehicle power interuption, dealer reprogramming may be required for the automatic park brake, and the transmission park control. Also, there is a warning regarding the sunroof that the operation may be blocked by a power interuption, requiring dealer intervention. It is enough of an issue to BMW such that there is a removable manual crank to get the sunroof closed if you have to disconnect the battery, and it may rain. Scary stuff.

OK...that is enough info to dissuade me from EVER getting an E70!

Off Topic
 

I hear you. I want to see how it plays out in practice, but it makes me nervous.

At the same time, I recall years back when people purchased vehicles with carburetors and points, instead of fuel injection and electronic ignition, if they were in rural areas. If things were going to break, they wanted them to be things that responded well to a hammer, not an oscilloscope. It only took a few years before we all accepted black boxes as normal, and quit worrying about them. Still, when there is a hand crank for the sunroof in the tool kit.....