Changing battery in e36 M3

[ihaveaE36m3]

I have a '99 M3 and have never changed the battery before. It wouldn't start the other day, but does now that I jumped it. The indicator still shows black though, so I thought I should get it swapped out.

Is a battery swap something that can be easily done on your own? Is there anything that I should know before performing one?

Which battery do you guys recommend?

[Brent 930]

The biggest issue is getting a hold down for whatever non OE battery you go with.

Optima's are good if you're not concerned about weight.

[Xiphos]

OEM batteries work great. Dealer always has a couple

[GacAttack]

It's an easy job. Just remember that it's in the trunk-- you don't want to be that guy who posts a "did you guys know that BMW's don't need a battery!!!" thread.

As stated before, just be sure you get a good tie down. Also, if you have a vert, make sure to get a closed-cell battery or something labeled as being vibration resistent.

[GacAttack]

BTW, if you want more info on the battery, I think there's a thread around here with a link to the Bentely Service Manual. :devillook

[ihaveaE36m3]

It's an easy job. Just remember that it's in the trunk-- you don't want to be that guy who posts a "did you guys know that BMW's don't need a battery!!!" thread.

As stated before, just be sure you get a good tie down. Also, if you have a vert, make sure to get a closed-cell battery or something labeled as being vibration resistent.

Thanks for all the replies.

What is a vert? Does that have to do with skateboarding? I don't skate.

How do prices of OEM batteries at a dealership compare to prices of aftermarket batteries? How does quality compare?

[Xiphos]

Thanks for all the replies.

What is a vert? Does that have to do with skateboarding? I don't skate.

How do prices of OEM batteries at a dealership compare to prices of aftermarket batteries? Do does quality compare?

Vert = Convertible.

OEM batteries are great, most of them last 8+ years and I've had great success with them. The only reason behind switching from OEM is to get either a lightweight battery, or something that can handle more power for a stereo or whatnot. I also recommend an OEM battery because it mounts straight in, you don't need any special mounting hardware to make sure it doesnt move anywhere.

Most battery prices are about the same, expect around 120-150 for a battery.

[GacAttack]

I am still running ym OEM battery. build date is August 1998!

[desynch]

I had my battery replaced when it died with an OEM one. Costed ~130 at the time at the dealer. Installation is very simple.

[Jim Bassett]

Interstate MTP-91 also works, with factory hold down. I've got one in each car. Just be sure to ask for the optional (free) vent kit.

[ronpapworth]

I need to fab something to hold my aftermarket battery in for an HPDE. Anyone have pics of one?

[ronpapworth]

Nevermind. Found a bunch of them over in the track forum.

[fcocca]

Dyna-Batt was the right compromise for me, since weight savings was important. Required installing a different hold-down. Good luck.

[RRSperry]

+1 for the Interstate. It cost about $100

The battery before that was from the dealer, about $110 with BMWCCA discount.

[Boomerbimmer]

I am still running ym OEM battery. build date is August 1998!

Me too. Build date 8/94. Battery tenders are great!!!