Modern cars are moving computers! Every system of your BMW is guided by electronic circuits that depend on electricity. Normal wear and tear can lead to the eventual breakdown of any of the electrical or electronic systems of your car. When caught early, these are not difficult problems to fix. In today’s article, we’ll discuss some causes of malfunctioning electrical or electronic systems, what signs to look for, and the next steps if you see any of these issues.
Electrical Versus Electronics
The two terms are very closely related. Electrical has to do with the flow of electrical current and charge, as opposed to electronics is about the flow of electrons. The electrical system includes the actual wires and cables, whereas the electronic system is made of computer chips and boards. For the purposes of this article, we will consider both to be the same and use both terms interchangeably because a problem in the electrical system or the electronic system will pretty much manifest itself in a similar fashion and end up having the same effect on your BMW.
What Causes Electronics and Electrical Problems In a Car
Here are a few reasons your Beemer may be experiencing electrical issues:
- Defective Alternator: The alternator charges the battery. Therefore when it fails, it may cause the electrical components to perform erratically.
- Battery Problems: Your Bimmer’s battery supplies power to the rest of your car’s system. If this battery is compromised (too old, corroded, etc.), the rest of your car will not receive the necessary electricity it requires.
- Blown Fuses: Fuses are self-destructive protection devices installed in the electrical or electronic systems of your car. When electrical circuits overload, the fuse blows or ceases to operate by melting or popping, thereby, protecting excess electricity from passing through the system.
- Poor Wiring: Worn or frayed wires, loose connections, or melted cables will all interrupt the normal flow of electricity in your Beamer.
- Overcurrent: This is also known as an electrical overload or a short circuit. When more current than is intended flows through the system, it can damage the electrical or electronic system.
Signs that There Could Be Electrical or Electronic Issues in Your Car
- Infotainment System Out of Order: The infotainment center of modern cars is a computer. It’s an electronic device that runs on electricity. If this stops working you know you have to have it checked for electronics issues.
- Dim or Flickering Lights: If you notice any of the lights in your Beemer are flickering or too dim, it is most likely because the alternator is not working properly. There is some inability for the battery to get charged and not enough power is passing through.
- Battery Dies Frequently: If your battery refuses to hold its charge, that’s a sure sign that there is trouble with the electrical system.
- Burning Smells: Any type of burning smell in your car is a dangerous sign. It usually means some component has overheated and is melting. This can easily become a fire hazard. If electrical wires or electronic boards are melting, you may get a smell like plastic is burning.
- Whining or Growling Sounds: When the alternator fails, your Bimmer might make strange whining noises.
- There is No Power: If your engine is on and yet one or more of the power systems are not working, that’s a clear indication that the electrical or electronic system is out of order. Some examples of the things that may not operate are the door locks, windows, windshield wipers, infotainment center, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system, and several other systems that depend on power.
- Engine Won’t Start: The starting mechanism of modern cars is dependent on electronics. As such, an engine that refuses to start may be a strong clue that there is a problem with the electronics.
- Check Engine Light (CIL): Also called the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), is a catchall signal that something is wrong with your BMW. If you see this light illuminated in your dashboard, do not ignore it. A trained mechanic will use a scanner to diagnose the issue.
Peak Auto is Here for Your BMW’s Needs
Most often, these challenges can be fixed 
easily and quickly. We recommend you follow a proper maintenance schedule for your BMW. Most issues are usually discovered during the routine maintenance sessions and can be mitigated easily if caught early on. Otherwise, the problem can become severe and expensive. At Peak Auto, we are trained mechanics with many years of experience and specializations in specific cars. Call us or book an appointment to stop by our garage in Apex, North Carolina, and let’s see how we can help you.
