Ok so the part label on the fitted working unit is not accessable with a mirror as I suspect it is engine side . Does it matter if I go up in amps from 180 - 230 ? If 180 is fitted? Realoem states either were fitted to my car Is there any other way of checking without removing the current unit? The car is fully spec'd including HK sound, heated seats & heated steering wheel so I would suspect the 230A due to these high current bits thats without the HUD etc. Any advice would be great 01 Exch. generator 180A 1 12318509225 01 Exch. generator 230A 1 12318570676 Thanks Pete
Agree don’t see why not either but I would ring your local bmw dealership parts dept and give them the last seven digits of your vin number and ask them to quote for a replacement alternator sometimes they will have the part number too - long shot but might help
I wouldn't have any worries about fitting an uprated alternator. AFAIK it would be a benefit - not having to work so hard on cold winter mornings when it's 'all systems go'.
the label showing the current should be on the back of the alternator on the black plastic casing, can you not get a mirror to there?
Finally got a part number after standing on my head under the bonnet! Realoem wrong again so glad didn't purchase
Best for Ed to confirm but I suspect that the '01 Exch. generator 230A 1 12318570676' one listed on realoem is probably correct then as that is an exchange unit so carries a different part number to the new part which is the one fitted.
Ed said take it off and have a look, to be honest if I fit a replacement I will stick to the part number of the item removed same as the compressor if required
