BMW X3. Battery $536.00
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BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Hello all
At my annual service ..BMW says my battery is getting old and I should consider replacement ... (bmw x3 2015). .... it works perfect at moment ..I drive very little and is always on one of those chargers ( ILLINOIS is my state ) .. I tested it with multimeter and it read well above 12 v
Should I just ignore this advice from BMW. until I feel I need to change it as it exhibits slowing to start ect ect ... the bill for this will be $536..for battery , installation and registration.
When the times comes ..could I just get costco to put in a battery. ..or is the registration a problem? ... would I be crazy to be $536.00 to keep matters simple.
Thank you ...$536 seemed steep but may be I am out of touch with prices.
At my annual service ..BMW says my battery is getting old and I should consider replacement ... (bmw x3 2015). .... it works perfect at moment ..I drive very little and is always on one of those chargers ( ILLINOIS is my state ) .. I tested it with multimeter and it read well above 12 v
Should I just ignore this advice from BMW. until I feel I need to change it as it exhibits slowing to start ect ect ... the bill for this will be $536..for battery , installation and registration.
When the times comes ..could I just get costco to put in a battery. ..or is the registration a problem? ... would I be crazy to be $536.00 to keep matters simple.
Thank you ...$536 seemed steep but may be I am out of touch with prices.
Last edited by sonosoldi3112 on Fri Sep 17, 2021 10:33 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I tried do the costco battery for my BMW. No go. Need a special tool (meter) to program the battery. Had to cough up of $550 for mine as well.
I wouldn't replace the battery unless it truly needed it. For my 328i, the battery is located in the trunk under the carpet.
I wouldn't replace the battery unless it truly needed it. For my 328i, the battery is located in the trunk under the carpet.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
When I use this web site, BMW says your battery is $430. Which is less that $536, but still way too high.
https://bmwusaservice.com/batteries?gcl ... vwQAvD_BwE
Why would you take a 2015 car, or any car for that matter, to a dealer for service unless it was a recall or a warranty repair?
As far as I can tell, it's simply a Group 49 battery. Nothing special, and widely available for around $200 plus tax installed.
https://bmwusaservice.com/batteries?gcl ... vwQAvD_BwE
Why would you take a 2015 car, or any car for that matter, to a dealer for service unless it was a recall or a warranty repair?
As far as I can tell, it's simply a Group 49 battery. Nothing special, and widely available for around $200 plus tax installed.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
True, you need to go to a shop that has a Carly adapter or a similar tool. They are easy to use, and if I had a BMW I'd spend $50-100 to buy one even if I didn't need to change my battery (they are otherwise useful)>JimMolony wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 10:33 am I tried do the costco battery for my BMW. No go. Need a special tool (meter) to program the battery. Had to cough up of $550 for mine as well.
I wouldn't replace the battery unless it truly needed it. For my 328i, the battery is located in the trunk under the carpet.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
If you live somewhere with cold winters, consider replacing a 8-9 year old battery before winter to avoid getting stuck while out due to a dead battery, especially if you regularly leave the car parked outside, at a train station, work, etc.
Replaced (aging) batteries proactively in one 2013 BMW after 6 years (starting hard) and a second 2013 BMW after 8 years last month (no issue other than age/winter). I had the dealer replace the batteries for ~$500 each as it wasn’t as simple as replacing a battery myself in a Honda/Toyota.
Replaced (aging) batteries proactively in one 2013 BMW after 6 years (starting hard) and a second 2013 BMW after 8 years last month (no issue other than age/winter). I had the dealer replace the batteries for ~$500 each as it wasn’t as simple as replacing a battery myself in a Honda/Toyota.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
If you don't mind putting in some of your own effort, apps like bimmerlink can do the registration and save you some cost.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I'm sure it's at least 50% off at a reputable indie shop. Don't ever go to the stealership after warranty.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I usually buy a quality battery at a discount, sometimes at CostCo, sometimes at a retailer, really depending on where I get the best deal. The last Kirkland battery powering my Cummins Dodge that I bought at CostCo has lasted for 12 years.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
There's a reason they are known as stealerships.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
On whether to replace > I think it comes down to your tolerance for being stuck. I carry jumper cables and it's not a big deal. I don't know how easy a BMW is to jump. But, any money you saved is lost if you call a tow truck. So that's really the question, you have an old battery that looks fine... or could just croak and you need to jump and drive to get the battery swapped.
Good luck on the price. I'm guessing lots of BMW owners pay whatever because... well they can.
Good luck on the price. I'm guessing lots of BMW owners pay whatever because... well they can.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
So what has to happen other than remove the old battery and put the new one in? Did BMW build in some needlessly complicated procedure to do a simple battery swap?
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Personally, I prefer to proactively replace batteries when they are near the end of the typical lifespan rather than get stuck somewhere when it dies, which I have zero tolerance for. However, this price seems high and OP should probably get a price elsewhere like an indie BMW shop. They could probably just give you a price over the phone if you give them the year and model.
Last edited by tim1999 on Fri Sep 17, 2021 12:14 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Not especially complicated, but it does require an OBD adapter with BMW software. See my post above.
Learn more here:
https://www.google.com/search?q=bmw+x3+ ... P45q6sA847
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
A number of newer vehicles (not just BMWs) have systems that adjust alternator operation based on the age and specifications of the battery. If you don't somehow let the car know that you've put a new battery in, it will likely overcharge it and reduce its lifespan.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Does this mean you cannot just call AAA to replace your dead battery?
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
You can go to AutoZone or similar stores and ask for a free test of the battery. You'll get a printed result showing various measurements that can tell you if the battery needs to be replaced. Or buy a battery tester, a multimeter only tells you the voltage but not how strong a current (in Amps) can be drawn from it without dropping the voltage across the two terminals.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I did the battery registration myself on my 2012 135i using:
- a $20 OBD-II to USB cable (not sure if your X3 requires a different cable)
- the free software from BimmerGeeks: https://www.bimmergeeks.net/downloads
- one of the many instructional videos on YouTube
- battery from Advance Auto Parts using 20% off coupon
The software is a bit hard to use (some of it was not even translated from German for my E82), but for the money you can save, I think it's worth it.
- a $20 OBD-II to USB cable (not sure if your X3 requires a different cable)
- the free software from BimmerGeeks: https://www.bimmergeeks.net/downloads
- one of the many instructional videos on YouTube
- battery from Advance Auto Parts using 20% off coupon
The software is a bit hard to use (some of it was not even translated from German for my E82), but for the money you can save, I think it's worth it.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
This is why i will never own a BMW. Insanely high maintenance cost.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
vfinx wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 12:37 pmA number of newer vehicles (not just BMWs) have systems that adjust alternator operation based on the age and specifications of the battery. If you don't somehow let the car know that you've put a new battery in, it will likely overcharge it and reduce its lifespan.
Interesting - thanks for the information. Seems like a reasonable idea, but given that it is a simple maintenance item BMW could have made this more consumer friendly by providing a simple reset procedure for the consumer.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
The only unusual things are:
1. Unlike other hood latches, there is no "flap" that has to be pushed/pulled to open it. Instead, you have to pull the release lever twice.
2. The battery will be in the trunk, but there will be jump points in the engine bay. So one should read the manual and know where that is.
3. When shutting the hood, you may have to press down on it further to allow the electronic hooks to latch properly.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
For total peace of mind and to keep it simple you can pay the 536.
A 12v test is not enough. The battery needs needs a load test. Most little box auto parts stores will do the battery test that is needed. Maybe Costco and Sams will too. You're on the right track with the 12v test though. If you measure less than 12, well, then you do have a problem.
I did a quick search on YouTube and watched a video. There is a step for your BMW to reprogram the computer. I would call the auto parts stores and ask if they will replace your battery if needed AND do a reprogram.
I would not typically replace a battery just because it is old. Old and weak should be replaced.
Does the dealer do all your maintenance?
Now I'm wondering what cars need a reprogram when the battery is changed???...
A 12v test is not enough. The battery needs needs a load test. Most little box auto parts stores will do the battery test that is needed. Maybe Costco and Sams will too. You're on the right track with the 12v test though. If you measure less than 12, well, then you do have a problem.
I did a quick search on YouTube and watched a video. There is a step for your BMW to reprogram the computer. I would call the auto parts stores and ask if they will replace your battery if needed AND do a reprogram.
I would not typically replace a battery just because it is old. Old and weak should be replaced.
Does the dealer do all your maintenance?
Now I'm wondering what cars need a reprogram when the battery is changed???...
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
thanks all and BB ..yes ..I use dealer as they do home pickup free and leave loaner ...good perk ( I know I am indirectly paying) .. my only maintenance is oil change once a year as I drive less than 1000 miles a year ... .every second year they change the brake fluid ( which is expensive). but they say it is highly recommended ..even if you do not drive much .... I used and independent guy near me who does European vehicles ... and his prices were not much different than those of dealership and I had to sit around for hours .... now he might be 50%. less on a battery so I will for sure check that out.
Last edited by sonosoldi3112 on Fri Sep 17, 2021 3:03 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Our '19 Ford has a similar battery management system. It's not your grandfather's Oldmobile. The days of just flipping a battery at Grand Auto are over.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
BMWs are money pits. Paying a car payment to replace a battery is insane.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMgcxO8FvtE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMgcxO8FvtE
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
That’s cheap - a bud of ours replaced MB battery for 850.00 and shop-supplies $30 plus tax + environmental fees + tax etc — she said glad to have finished all the things for under $1 grand !! Some folks have more reasons to be happier than others
Last edited by sc9182 on Sun Sep 26, 2021 12:14 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
The battery I would put in costs $200. There's a variety of ways to register the battery, I use the Carly for BMW app on my phone and a bluetooth OBD adapter.
Where in Illinois do you live? I'm in the NW suburbs of Chicago, would be happy to register the battery for you if you're nearby.
Where in Illinois do you live? I'm in the NW suburbs of Chicago, would be happy to register the battery for you if you're nearby.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
thank you David .. I am in Barrington 60010 ....LBS
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Somehow other car companies can design a reliable vehicle that has easily replaceable car batteries without special software to synch it to the car's computer.
Some might even accuse BMW of purposely doing this as a way to for their dealerships to fleece consumers.
Some might even accuse BMW of purposely doing this as a way to for their dealerships to fleece consumers.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
A $600 battery might be the difference between making rent and eating for some. For others, it might not be even be on the radar. I don't see it as a mental health issue.rockstar wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 6:43 pm BMWs are money pits. Paying a car payment to replace a battery is insane.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMgcxO8FvtE
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I had to replace an octopus hose on my Mercedes AC many years ago. I told the stealership that I hadn’t realized hose was being used as a verb.Escapevelocity wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 1:13 pm This is why i will never own a BMW. Insanely high maintenance cost.
I get the FI part but not the RE part of FIRE.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I believe this or a similar process is becoming more common. At the least I think some kind of battery-related reset is required to prevent errors being displayed on a number of newer cars. So I'm not sure how many vehicles are being designed now won't require more complicated battery replacement than in the past.illumination wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:20 pm Somehow other car companies can design a reliable vehicle that has easily replaceable car batteries without special software to synch it to the car's computer.
Some might even accuse BMW of purposely doing this as a way to for their dealerships to fleece consumers.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Here's the reason why BMWs get the terrible reputation for their maintenance/service/repairs. Some owners of European lux vehicle brands take great offense when mentioned.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Any idea what other brands are now requiring this?tibbitts wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:32 pmI believe this or a similar process is becoming more common. At the least I think some kind of battery-related reset is required to prevent errors being displayed on a number of newer cars. So I'm not sure how many vehicles are being designed now won't require more complicated battery replacement than in the past.illumination wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:20 pm Somehow other car companies can design a reliable vehicle that has easily replaceable car batteries without special software to synch it to the car's computer.
Some might even accuse BMW of purposely doing this as a way to for their dealerships to fleece consumers.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Germans, Swedes and Ford. (Not necessarily every model within the brand)illumination wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:39 pmAny idea what other brands are now requiring this?tibbitts wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:32 pmI believe this or a similar process is becoming more common. At the least I think some kind of battery-related reset is required to prevent errors being displayed on a number of newer cars. So I'm not sure how many vehicles are being designed now won't require more complicated battery replacement than in the past.illumination wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:20 pm Somehow other car companies can design a reliable vehicle that has easily replaceable car batteries without special software to synch it to the car's computer.
Some might even accuse BMW of purposely doing this as a way to for their dealerships to fleece consumers.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
The problem isn’t that you have to register a new battery. All cars (I think) require you to register than you got an oil change, etc. The problem is that BMW appears to be charging you $200 to press the reset button,
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
BMW tax. Don't want to pay that.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I'm seeing where you have to have some sort of software to "tell" the car a new battery has been replaced, not just a button on the dash like an oil reset. It looks like though there are aftermarket solutions instead of a dealer scanner, but this looks beyond what most many DIY'er types would be comfortable with
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh41RH-tLiI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb5x9yLe8dA
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
What is this REGISTRATION you speak of ?sonosoldi3112 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 10:29 am ... the bill for this will be $536..for battery , installation and registration.
When the times comes ..could I just get costco to put in a battery. ..or is the registration a problem? ...
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
They used to be fun to drive and that made it worth it for me. I wouldn't touch a new one because they are no longer the benchmark for fun.Escapevelocity wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 1:13 pm This is why i will never own a BMW. Insanely high maintenance cost.
OP, if I were you I would replace it. If the dealer is recommending a replacement, presumably it isn't testing up to spec.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Most indie shops buy parts from the dealers. You really only save on labor, if that (BMW dealers are much more competitive now) which is not going to be much for a battery. Additionally, if you're a BMWCCA member, you can get 10% off on parts.tim1999 wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 12:06 pm Personally, I prefer to proactively replace batteries when they are near the end of the typical lifespan rather than get stuck somewhere when it dies, which I have zero tolerance for. However, this price seems high and OP should probably get a price elsewhere like an indie BMW shop. They could probably just give you a price over the phone if you give them the year and model.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Hahahahahaha post of the week! Well done.
When consumer product companies "innovate" new income streams that bring no value to the consumer, it really peeves me. If I hear of a company with such practices getting "disrupted" I feel that the universe is back in balance. Cable TV providers, for example...
Cheers
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Bring. More. Wallet.
Cheers
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I had an X5 years ago and remember reading about the dealer battery install costs. I didn't read all of the posts in this thread but I wonder if you can buy the battery yourself and then work with an independent shop for the install. That way you aren't paying a massive markup on the battery itself.
I had all of my work done by a local shop that only worked on BMW's and their pricing was extremely reasonable.
I had all of my work done by a local shop that only worked on BMW's and their pricing was extremely reasonable.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Love this.TomatoTomahto wrote: ↑Sat Sep 18, 2021 12:29 pmI had to replace an octopus hose on my Mercedes AC many years ago. I told the stealership that I hadn’t realized hose was being used as a verb.Escapevelocity wrote: ↑Fri Sep 17, 2021 1:13 pm This is why i will never own a BMW. Insanely high maintenance cost.
Don't gamble; take all your savings and buy some good stock and hold it till it goes up, then sell it. If it don't go up, don't buy it. - Will Rogers
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
Wait until the Bogleheads hear about the cars that make you lock and recalibrate the electronic parking brake when changing brake pads with a special tool. Even your beloved Toyota is starting to require this.
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
From the factory, the computer is configured with the type and capacity of battery that is installed. Over time, it adjusts the charging protocol to account for the changing battery condition as it ages. Registration is the process of resetting this algorithm at a minimum, and also changing the battery type and capacity if appropriate. This ensures that the new battery is not damaged by under- (or more likely over-) charging.
For example, my car came from the factory with a 70Ah traditional flooded battery. When it failed after 6 years, I replaced it with a 92Ah AGM. During registration I changed the battery type from flooded to AGM, and the capacity from 70 to 90. This took about 2 minutes, using a BMW-specific OBD app that I already had. 5.5 years later, still going strong.
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Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I love these "I have an expensive car and parts and service are expensive" threads. Whoa! No way! SURPRISE!
Re: BMW X3. Battery $536.00
I certainly won't defend this practice of BMW not providing a way for the consumer to do the registration through the infotainment, but I will say that BMW has for decades left their software open to tinkering which is great for people that like to do a bit of DIY. "Coding" has been a thing in BMW land for decades. As already mentioned earlier, one can easily download an app and an OBD2 dongle to do this battery registration, and a multitude of other things. It's quite fun.
I'm not a true car enthusiast so someone correct me if I am wrong - I don't think there is another brand that allows for as much unofficial DIY customization on the software side as BMW. I used to do this with a laptop with really scary German software but now it's super easy with an iphone/Android app (see bimmercode).
I'm not a true car enthusiast so someone correct me if I am wrong - I don't think there is another brand that allows for as much unofficial DIY customization on the software side as BMW. I used to do this with a laptop with really scary German software but now it's super easy with an iphone/Android app (see bimmercode).