A German vehicle that dies when jumper cables are removed usually has a charging system problem. A dead battery is usually a symptom of a charging system issue, not the cause of the problem.
Why This Happens
The alternator powers the vehicle once it's started, not the battery. The battery stores power to start the engine; once it starts, the alternator takes over, powering the vehicle's electrical system. An alternator problem that does not produce enough electrical power cannot keep the engine running when the jump battery is disconnected. If the vehicle's battery is weak and the alternator is not producing power, the engine will stall when the jump battery is disconnected.
Keep in mind that a failed alternator will eventually cause a battery to fail. Often, when a battery is drained to the point where it won't crank an engine, it is damaged and won't accept or retain a full charge.
What Needs To Be Done
This is a problem that will require an auto repair shop to diagnose and repair the charging system. The auto electrical technician at Stadium Auto Service will need to charge and test the battery, check the vehicle's computer for error codes, test the alternator output, determine the cause of the charging system problem, and either repair the electrical issue or replace the alternator. The battery may also need to be replaced. This is not a roadside repair.
What Can You Do
If your vehicle has a charging system problem, you have two options:
- Your first option, if the battery is in good condition, is to fully charge the battery, which should give you enough time to drive a short distance to Stadium Auto Service. The distance you can drive before the engine quits can be maximized by limiting the use of accessories such as the air conditioner, heater, windshield wipers, headlights, and radio.
- Your second option is to have your vehicle towed to a repair shop such as Stadium Auto Service in Ann Arbor, MI. (see towing information below)
If you are unsure what to do, phone Stadium Auto Service and our service advisors will help.
24/7 Auto Towing And Roadside Assistance in Ann Arbor
Your best decision is to have your vehicle towed to Stadium Auto Service. Getting your vehicle to us as quickly as possible increases the chance of a same-day diagnosis and repair.
- Our recommended towing company in Ann Arbor is Brewer’s Towing: 734-662-9715
- You can also use AAA Roadside Assistance: 800-222-4357
Both towing services, Brewer’s Towing and AAA Roadside Assistance, know our location in Ann Arbor and can assist you with dropping off your vehicle and keys so that we get an early start when we open. Check out our After-hours vehicle drop-off information.
Recommended Auto Electrical Repair Shop
Stadium Auto Service is an Ann Arbor, MI, auto repair shop that provides auto electrical and charging system testing and repair for German vehicles. We have technicians who specialize in electrical repairs for Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Porsche, and Volkswagen.
Contact Us Now
If you have auto electrical problems in Ann Arbor or nearby, call Stadium Auto Service at (734) 369-6787, make an online appointment, or visit our shop. We have technicians who specialize in auto electrical diagnosis and work exclusively on Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Porsche, and Volkswagen.