Foreboding?

[Zyal8r]

The check light on the dash won"t hold the clock setting. Then when it resets itself to 0s the warning ! symbol comes on till I reset it again. No big deal but I have to keep checking that warning symbol in case it is something else. I don't think the battery is weak because it does it while driving. Tried numerous setting procedures. I even read the Manual!! Anyone else ever get this?

[NoQuarter]

Best place to start is get the battery tested anyway.

[rking117]

Sounds like some kind of system failure to me. This may require a tech to look at it. Do keep us posted.

[Zyal8r]

If I get the battery tested does it need to go to a BMW guy or just any auto parts store with a tester?

[rking117]

^^ you can get anyone who has a load tester to test the battery. However, if you replace the battery it needs to be coded by an indy shop or BMW. I take my batteries to Auto Zone or Advanced Auto. Just make sure they do not close the trunk if they disconnect the battery.

[Zyal8r]

My voltmeter reads 12.6 v engine off and 14 .7 running. My other car reads 12.7. I think it is getting old. Engine starts right up tho.
If I buy a battery at auto zone and have them install it, can I take it to a dealer for coding after it is installed?
Actually with all the peripheral leads and the vent and the coding I think I better have a BMW tech do it all

[rking117]

Originally Posted by Zyal8r

My voltmeter reads 12.6 v engine off and 14 .7 running. My other car reads 12.7. I think it is getting old. Engine starts right up tho.
If I buy a battery at auto zone and have them install it, can I take it to a dealer for coding after it is installed?
Actually with all the peripheral leads and the vent and the coding I think I better have a BMW tech do it all

Yes, you can. I did. However, at this point you are not really sure that is the issue yet. You have to do a load test. that is different than using a volt meter. And BTW. I never thought this was a symptom of your battery. The reason why is because you are not complaining about any other systems going haywire or lagging when it starts. One or the other usually exists. I would though have the battery checked first. then go to a tech for further diagnosis.

[Zyal8r]

Thanks all,
Was able to drive about 100 mi today without using a/c no fan no radio on. Everything was fine when I left it. Battery is a few years old. Lately the top and the AC and the lights have been getting a lot of use in stop and go traffic so it may be on its last legs. I agree that losing the clock setting seems like a weird symptom. We will see.