Discharging battery in BMW after replacing lights with newer ones – how to fix it?

BMW driver’s question – battery problems after replacing headlights

I own a 2000 BMW E39 and decided to change the headlights to those used in the “facelifted” version of the same model. Since then, problems with the battery discharging began. Despite the fact that it is new. Earlier I also regenerated the alternator. What is the reason for such problems?

The problem affected a 2000 BMW 530 E39, but it may also occur in other models.

BM Cars service response

Discharging the battery at a standstill is usually caused by excessive resting current draws. A BMW car should go into sleep mode after about 30 minutes of parking, at which time the battery current draw drops to about 0.01 A.

If there is damage to the electrical system (short circuit) or damage to any of the controllers, the current draws when waking up the vehicle and preparing to start the engine, can reach several amps. With such draws, the battery can be discharged in a few hours or more depending on its condition.

The described headlight replacement and its association with battery discharge may indicate a problem with the electrical system of the lamps or the light controller. In order to make an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to check the current draw and the condition of the vehicle.

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