12 31 009 Checking alternator (BSD)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Correct connections on charged battery
Correct connections on alternator and starter motor
Good ground connection between engine and body
Tensioned ribbed V-belt
Read out DME/DDE fault memory.

NOTE: The alternator with BSD interface can communicate with the engine control unit (DME/DDE).
The alternator is not connected to the charge telltale light.
The alternator can identify various faults.

BSD alternator can be recognized by the plug connection on the alternator.

Connect diagnosis tester.

Function selection
Complete vehicle
Drive
Voltage and current regulation
Voltage and current generation
Alternator
Follow instruction in diagnostic program

Oscillogram for a fault-free alternator:

Fig 1: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740394

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oscillogram for a faulty alternator:

One phase interrupted.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 2: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740395

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Interturn fault.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 3: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740396

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in negative diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 4: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740397

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 5: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740398

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 6: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740399

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in exciter diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 7: Identifying Signal Waveform

G04740400

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Assemble engine.

Check function of DME/DDE.