04 X5 Alternator NOT Charging?
 

Ok, can someone please point me to a possible direction.

History:

Replaced Battery and Rebuilt Alternator 2 months ago

Last week, got Battery Light, no reading of charging from Battery Post

Removed and brought back to Shop that Rebuilt Alternator

They said it was charging, but they changed out Voltage Regulator anyways

Put Alternator back in and nothing again.

Is there a Relay of some sort that excites the Alternator to start charging?

The DME is what excites it... and I wouldn't suspect that normally. It may just take some digging around to go through the basics on it. Just dig around with your meter and start checking the system.

The shop says it is charging properly on the bench test, so it could be the wires to it. I'd just make sure the big main wire to it is properly installed and tightned, then make sure the small plug it installed correctly as well.

Tightened the big red wire on the Alternator with 13mm socket. Plug next to it, clicks right in. How do I check them any more?

Also, what a DME?

The DME is the engine computer... it controls the alternator.

Ok, heres the update. I brought the car to Autozone to have them run a test on the Alternator and Battery. Their machine barely worked since my battery was very low and their machine is portable and puts a serious load on it. I told them that i would trickle charge the battery overnight and bring it back again the next day. I am sure my Alternator will show no charging, but what do you guys think I should do next?

I am going to try and remove the red cable (back of alt) and plug and maybe clean them and inspect but what else can I do? Next step after that is to buy another alternator but this time from Autozone. Is this a good plan? Anyone heard of the DME malfunctioning? The car ran great beforehand and no leading issues. Help please as my wife is having to drive my gas guzzler Expedition since X5 has been down.

If the alternator tests bad on the vehicle, go for the new one. I prefer OEM, but the autozone one should come with warranty as well. Just see if they can make a printout showing the failed test of the alternator so you can bring that to the shop that rebuilt it and try for a refund.

I'd pay a little extra and get a rebuilt Bosch one from Napa.

Dan

$199 Rebuilt from Autozone with a $35 Core. I will check with NAPA on the Bosch one. Good idea on getting a printout as I would use this in court if I need to. Hopefully it doesn't come to that.

NAPA $220.40 Raylock Brand $50 Core.

I asked about a Bosch and they said they haven't carried Bosch in a long time.

Dropped off at the BMW Stealership for a Diagnosis. $130 Bones.