I have a 2004 E60 530i with just about 95K miles on the odometer. Last week I received a warning indicating the Alternator Malfunction, which was on for just few seconds and it disappeared. I haven't seen the light sense. Then today we here in Maryland had some heavy winds with rain on the way into work - no problems, but when I started driving home the car went berserk with many errors:

Transmission Malfunction
Washer Fluid Low - knew that one already
Seatbelt Control Malfunction
Cruise Control Malfunction
Tire Pressure Sensor Malfunction

Now I'm sort of thinking there's a fuse on the bus that controls all these, haven't looked yet. I wanted to post this thread first before I started looking. Anyway does anyone have a clue as to what's going on? I thought at first I'd need a new Alternator, but now after receiving all these other errors I'm not so sure. Thoughts, Ideas, suggestions are warmly welcomed.

Respectfully,
Jay

 

Your first guess is the right one. New alternator.

 

Check fuses first. Clean your battery terms. Take sand paper and make sure they're clean and when you recontact, tighten them down good. Swap out battery second. There's been many posts lately...and subsequently my local BMW dealer's SM told me today that they've had about 8 cars in this week for battery issues. Maybe some universal galactical issue going on. lol... See what happens. If it's not battery, return and replace with old battery. Next have alternator tested. If that checks out fine you have other electrical issue most likely.

 

If it's only when starting up and you've the same battery since 2004 then it's the battery

 

I won't rule out the battery, but it was just replaced last year. I'm also checking to ensure the terminals was secure - they are good and tight. I'm checking the fuses now, so far so good.

-Jay

 

Sounds like the brushes are worn out on the alternator. Either that or you are getting ac voltage, either way sounds like the alternator.

 

alternator. mine crapped out a couple of weeks ago, exactly same symptoms and no start (left me on the side of the road). was replaced at no cost under CPO warranty for me . Just waiting for my 5 yr. old battery to die....

 

Anyone have information on how to change the alternator. I suppose I'm looking for TQ settings and any helpful advice when removing it.

-Jay

 

Timing's right for new alternator

See if this works:

from DIY Alternator info