Pretty standard for retirement on a standard (archive)

My original factory installed battery just died. On the BMW OEM Batteries the mfg date is stamped on the positive mount. This battery was mfg in May of 96.
Doug
97 750il

OEM battery. Your typcial life span for OEM is 3 - 5 years. The latter from your better quality cars but location and usage will make the biggest difference. For example, a car in colder climates where the driver uses his rear defroster, front defroster and butt warmers will strain his battery and charging system more than someone who lives in a more mild environment. The battery starts the car then once the engine is running the alternator puts back the energy used from the battery and provides the amperage needed to run the ignition system and accessories. Unfortunately if you use all those accessories especially at night with your lights on chances are you will be draining the battery at an idle due to the fact your amperage draw will be greater than what the alternator can produce. This is where the battery comes back into play and provides the additional power required to run the car. Batteries put through this kind of "torture" usually have a shorter life span. For a replacement may if you decide to go with an aftermarket may I suggest you look at the Interstate line? Not sure if they make one for the bimmer or not but I have used these in all 3 of my cars, motorcycle and both boats (one boat has 2 batts and the other 3) and have had great success. Just my opinion and limited experience.

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