What's the best battery spec for E60 530i?

[Alex0607]

Hi Guys,

I am currently using 12V 90AH Varta Battery. But my mechanic said its best to use higher current spec. i.e. 100AH.

Anyone using higher than normal AH spec on their car? Thanks

Alex

[White94RX]

I would typically advise to use the biggest one that will fit. Most E60's came with an 850 cca battery from the factory. They are no longer available, but now we're replacing them with the black AGM battery, which is 900 cca.

The most important thing is to register the battery when it's replaced. This must be done at a dealer, or independant shop with dealer level software. The battery must be registered in the power module! It has a lot to do with the charging, and battery maintaining strategy for alternator output.

[Alex0607]

Thanks for the advice. Will try to bring the car in to do just that. Not sure what is cca but I went with 100Ah battery.

[midair]

CCA = cold cranking amps

The battery in my '08 528i was recently replaced under warranty. The specs are:

Battery 61 21 7 594 976

BCI Group Size = 49
Din Size = H8
Voltage = 12
Cold Cranking Amps at 0 degrees F = 900
Cranking Amps at 32 degrees F = 1,035
Reserve Charge = 180 minutes
20 hour Amp hour rate = 95
Type = AGM
Length = 15 9/16"
Width = 6 7/8"
Height = 7 1/2"

[Alex0607]

Well, the 100Ah battery has somewhat improved the car but its still there occasionally (i.e. the drop in RPM when in gear). I am hoping registering the battery with the ECU will solve the problem. Else its back to the drawing board. I am tempted to just change the ICV.

[mikegreen]

I put an Exide 49-60 from NTB in 2008... no reprogramming or registering... the car has been fine ever since. $130.

At $130 every 4 years, I'll proactively change it this winter on my own... Rather than $300-500 at the dealer.

regards,
Mike

[Alex0607]

The drop in RPM was attributed to insufficient RPM setting for when Gear and aircon is engaged. A friend's Bosch scantool was able to solve it and now the car runs fine.

[Bimwad]

I put an Exide 49-60 from NTB in 2008... no reprogramming or registering... the car has been fine ever since. $130.

At $130 every 4 years, I'll proactively change it this winter on my own... Rather than $300-500 at the dealer.

regards,
Mike

Where on earth did you get the Exide battery, are there other dealers?

[mikegreen]

NTB - national tire and battery - near Chicago. Might try giving them a call?