In this guide we deal with the BMW error message “Increased battery discharge when stationary” .
We will look at the symptoms , the causes , the costs and possible solutions .
How does this error message occur – on which models does it occur?
The error message ” Battery: Increased battery discharge when stationary. Power consumers have been temporarily switched off ” is usually caused by a defective vehicle battery . This message can appear in numerous BMW and Mini models .
Symptoms: How does the error manifest itself in the car?
The symptoms can manifest themselves in various ways. Usually, the initial problem is “just” an error message on the screen . However, the problem can quickly lead to more and more of the vehicle’s electrical devices failing one after the other , and the car then won’t start at all.
Cause / Solution: How can I fix the problem?
The cause is usually an aging vehicle battery . However, poor maintenance and care can also be responsible for the problem.
Replacing the vehicle battery should resolve the problem. However, if the vehicle battery is not identified as the cause after measuring the voltage or reading the control unit (Battery Management System) , the further investigation can become extremely complex .
Another, but now quite rare, source of failure could be the alternator . A defect in the alternator can result in the battery no longer being charged sufficiently or not at all.
However, a charging current measurement can be sufficient to rule this out as a source of error.
Costs: How much does a repair cost?
In newer vehicles, changing the battery can be quite difficult, even for professionals . Therefore, we strongly recommend visiting a specialist workshop , as only they have the necessary equipment to perform the replacement.
The costs for this can vary greatly . The biggest difference usually comes from the newly installed battery.
Depending on the manufacturer and charging capacity, their prices can now be exorbitantly high.
- Battery new part price: 300 – 1000 €.
- Change: 150 – 300 € labor costs
- Alternator new part price: from 200 – 700 €.
- Change: 200 – 300 € labor costs.