Battery Replacement 128i

[Kayven128i]

I have a 2011 128i, I bought it brand new in June 2010. I only have 18k miles on it but I have been getting that yellow battery icon if key is left in ignition for a minute or so after turning off.

I'm going to the dealer tomorrow for a $49.95 oil change (not bad) so I figured I would ask about the battery. I'm not paying 400-500 and I'll let them know that. I can get a Bosch battery for $170, how much do most independents charge to register and install?

Do you have luck haggling with dealership?

[bmw1racer]

Buy the battery and Carly Bluetooth adapter and do it yourself.

[dailowill]

It honestly should not take them more than an hour. I did it myself with Carly for BMW in about that time or less.

If you do decide to go to an indy shop, make sure they register the battery. If they say you don't have to, I'd just leave that shop. Also, if you go with a battery with a different AH rating or change from lead acid to AGM, you'll have to program your car to support that battery. Both functions are supported by Carly for BMW.

[Kayven128i]

I found a highly rated independent about 25-30 miles from me. He said he will install and program for $40.

I'm buying the battery for $145 so I figured $185 total isn't bad. Good deal?

[bmw1racer]

Originally Posted by Kayven128i

I found a highly rated independent about 25-30 miles from me. He said he will install and program for $40.

I'm buying the battery for $145 so I figured $185 total isn't bad. Good deal?

Really good deal.

[Olgeezer1]

If the car doesn't get driven much, as your mileage suggests,you need to plug it into a BMW Smart Charger when not in use and your battery problems will be over. These cars are battery killers when they sit, way too many sensors that can't be shut off. Anything longer than a week or 2 and I'd plug it in. Smart charger also "reconditions" the battery, extending battery life. Mine's on for 5 months during winter storage, original battery, starts instantly.

[bmw1racer]

Originally Posted by Olgeezer1

If the car doesn't get driven much, as your mileage suggests,you need to plug it into a BMW Smart Charger when not in use and your battery problems will be over.

Or any smart charger... I have a CTEK.

These cars are battery killers when they sit, way too many sensors that can't be shut off. Anything longer than a week or 2 and I'd plug it in.

Or not driven enough... Apparently short trips (< 10miles) aren't good for the battery as well.