Complete electrical & engine shutdown while driving
 

Hello All,

Did some searches but could not find a post describing such an extreme failure...

My wife's 2006 530xi wagon died getting on the freeway this AM. It was a complete shutdown of EVERYTHING and it happened all at once. The engine turned off, and there was no power to any of the electronic components (dash, overhead lighting, nothing). She was lucky not to get hit by another vehicle as the car stopped in traffic.

She called a tow service who tried to jump the car using the jump point in the engine bay. There was zero response. Also, the car is totally unresponsive to turning the key in the ignition (no dash lights, sounds clicking under the hood, nada, zip, nothing).

The car is at a trusted indy BMW shop, and they said it's likely one of 3 different power control modules, but it would take some time to diagnose.

Anyone have any ideas that might help to troubleshoot?

Thanks,

Andy

Even though it wouldn't take a jump, it could be the battery or alternator. I'd start there 1st, but if it's already at a shop, I'm sure they'll figure it out soon. Best of luck.

Sounds like an alternator. Sorry to hear this Andy. Good luck to you, and
I hope it does not cost you too much.

If it's at the INDY already just let them troubleshoot it.
Could due to battery safety terminal.

to the OP, did you get your issue resloved? Wife had a similiar issue but was able to restart the vehicle on her own.

It turned out there was a loose cable connection to one of the main power distribution modules. The mechanic said the connect was corroded as well, so he cleaned it, smeared it with dielectric grease, plugged it back in and it's been working fine.

It's a wagon, which have been known to have water work it's way down to the spare tire well via the sunroof (where that power module is), so maybe that explains it.

-Andy

Thanks