DIY Battery

[BigDaddySmooth]

Fellas,
I'm pretty sure my battery is about to go...it's about 5 yrs old. When I recently started my car in the cold, it barely kicked over and the radio shows "code" so that's why I think it's the battery. Anyway, it looks pretty simple to swap but we all know nothing is too simple for BMW. So, how do I do this myself? Thanks.

[1996 328ti]

Battery is very simple.
I've been buying my batteries from Interstate dealers.

Just be sure it's made for that vehicle and buy the higher amp model.
There are 2 from what I remember.
You will get another 5 years without worry.

[tiFreak]

when you uninstall the old battery, disconnect your negative wire first, and when you install the new one connect the positive wire first. it's not that important but it will decrease the chances of accidentally making it arc

[1996 328ti]

And you may have to reset your windows.

[jca]

If you have a stock radio be sure you know its code number because you have enter it into the radio to get it to play again anytime power is disconnected from the radio.

[DaRvDrUmS]

Terminal grease helps too! ;)

[John Firestone]

Don't forget the vent tube!

[BigDaddySmooth]

What and where is the vent tube?

[John Firestone]

Sorry, strike that.

The stock 'ti battery is up front. If you relocate it to the cargo area (http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=27419) it only then should have a vent tube. Hmmm. The DIY doesn't mention one.

[740isport]

Sorry, strike that.

The stock 'ti battery is up front. If you relocate it to the cargo area (http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=27419) it only then should have a vent tube. Hmmm. The DIY doesn't mention one.

Even if up front, if you have the cover and the battery isn't just sitting exposed, you want to attach the vent tube. It goes through the cover and down between the firewall and the battery.