OEM BMW Alternators

A battery starts your BMW. Another part charges it: your factory alternator. In fact, it runs several electrical systems under its hood: your dash display, steering, windshield wiper blades, power windows, entertainment system, and even heated seats if you have them. How do car alternators work, though? By converting mechanical energy into electricity. The process begins with your engine, a drive belt, and a pulley. That pulley turns a rotor shaft, which spins some magnetic coils, and that movement generates alternating current (AC power). A rectifier captures it and turns it into direct current (DC power). Your BMW can then start up and stay running. Unfortunately, though, an alternator can sometimes go bad, often without warning. The causes of a bad one range from incorrect jump-starts and incompatible accessory installation to degraded parts and plain old age.

What Are the Signs of Alternator Problems?

There are a few and identifying them is easy. They include car radio and headlighting issues, a burning smell below the hood, a whining engine, and most obviously, total charging system shutdown. A dead battery can even suggest them. If you think your BMW has alternator issues, run an inspection and test its charging system. Otherwise, be sure to change your alternator every 80,000 to 150,000 miles or so -- about every 7 years. However, double-check your owner's manual to be sure it's replacement time. When it is, a genuine OEM alternator will fit your BMW best. Our auto parts store can ship one to you in short order. Buy it online today!