The electrical system of the present day model of BMWs is so complicated that it ensures a closer charging as possible to all type and age of the battery. There is a computer program that is intended to run and control the alternator. After you have replaced the battery, the BMWs computer is supposed to know about the changing. Therefore the software of equipment needs to be informed on the updated vehicle from a standard Lead Acid Battery to AGM, Absorbent Glass Mat type and the reason is that it stores the electric energy different from the primary battery.

The process of updating the computer controlled alternator is what is referred to as battery resetting. assuming the battery registration processes or failing to reset the computer after battery charge won’t trigger the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and (MIL) Malfunction Indicator Lamp. However, the vehicle users must be warned of the danger of skipping the BMW computer battery change that can result in shortening the life of the battery in the vehicle. In addition to that, it can damage the entire components of the electrical system.
BMW’s primary reason for developing the new way of regulating the charging performance by reset of BMW computer after battery change is all about improving the engine performance of the vehicle. Unlike many people who think that the company is intended to make more sales, longer life batteries or protecting the car owner’s wallet.

Many BMW automotive shops have experienced diagnosis issues by customers who fail to reset and install the BMW computer after battery change in less than a year. The normal charging system of the vehicle usually reduce the life of unregistered batteries by allowing an aggressive battery charge especially in a cold weather condition and also damages the control unit.

In contrast with Lead Acid batteries, the AGM battery does not hold the sulfuric acid freely in its casing. The acid is instead bound into the fiber fleece glass. It is for such a reason that no acid escapes in case the housing is damaged. Moreover, the AGM battery is airtightly sealed to prevent water entry.

Resetting the BMW computer after battery change does the following tasks;
Informs the computer that the new battery registration has been successful
Ensures that the car battery registers 80% of the capacity as a reference point
Ensures that the Current Odometer readings are stored
Enables battery storage statics such as battery temperature, current, voltage and charge levels are deleted.

The following versions of BMWs require a computer reset after Battery Change

2002 and newer 7-Series E65/E66 chassis
2007 and newer X5 E70 chassis
2003 and newer 6-Series E54/E63 chassis
2005 and newer X5 E53 chassis with N62 engine
2008 and newer X6 E71 chassis
2006 and newer 3-Series E90/E91/E92/E93 chassis
2004 and newer 5-Series E60/E61 chassis

In conclusion, you should never gamble with resetting the BMW computer after the battery change. The procedures are cost-effective and will ensure you enjoy the pleasures of a BMW car. Many reputable BMW motor shops are equipped with training to ensure proper registration of your vehicle battery ensuring that the manufacturer’s warranty standards are met.

6 COMMENTS

  1. Need some help…I have a 1999 BMW M3 and just replaced the battery, I was told that I didint need to reset computer after replacement…now it wont start and security alarms keep going off…any help or codes would be appreiated..

  2. I’ve just replaced my battery on my e87 06 was told didn’t need to be programed to the car is this correct

    • Resetting the battery is something one should do I feel a few times a year, if the car has been sitting or even driven a lot..a times the car just gets lazy maybe or used to the same conditions or ways u drive. To start close all doors, windows.. simply press the moonroof button, hold till the moon roof opens once, then keep holding till it opens even more, then let go and everything should close on its own but don’t be afraid to push the button to help if need be.. That’s it.. Battery done. The whole process involves holdinag each window button in the up position for 30 sec then each window in the down position to complete everything. To get even more responses from the car try the key in the off or 0 position, Dont touch Break or gas. Turn key to position 1 for 10 sec then to 0 for 10 seconds Do this 3 times, Then Start it.. have fun and stay safe..

  3. Replaced mine on an F85 (2015 X5M) – – Just used the Carly for BMW – it has a feature to re-set and register the new batteries. I recommend Carly to anyone who likes to DIY minor jobs and do some basic feature-coding on BMW but does not want (or need) to have a professional grade tool used by a shop.

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