Windscreen-wiper and electric windows running slow too.
Also dash lights flicker when reving engine
Does this indicate a failing alternator or something else?
Any help appreciated
1990 316i
Dim dash warning lights show whilst driving?
Moderator: martauto
- paultv
- E30 Zone Squatter

- Posts: 1541
- Joined: Mon Apr 21, 2014 11:00 pm
- Location: Auf dem Schnee: Germany
Could well be worn brushes on the alternator....remove the regulator pack and check the brushes for wear and pull on them to extend the springs...this at least will increase their life a bit ...clean the comm with fine 600 grade wet and dry...as well as removing any crap on the comm. Reasemble and check if it all works correclty...order a replacement regulator brush pack and fit at your leisure.
Paul
Paul
Last edited by paultv on Thu Nov 12, 2020 6:22 am, edited 1 time in total.
4th May 1990 325i Convertible.
BMW E30 Cabriolet Best Mod Ever:
https://bmwe30cabriolet-wdm.blogspot.com/
BMW E30 Cabriolet Best Mod Ever:
https://bmwe30cabriolet-wdm.blogspot.com/
Worn brushes can cause the alternator to charge intermittently and you would have flickering from the battery light on the dash. You should check the alternator output with a multi-meter to see if its charging the battery. If electrics are operating slowly then a weak battery not charged will hardly have enough beans to start the car.
Cheers guys, that seems to have solved it.
Cleaned up the blackened contacts and some other corroaded electrics, reassembled and now runs with no dim warning lights, even with all lights/wipers/radio on.
Will get a new one on order
Cleaned up the blackened contacts and some other corroaded electrics, reassembled and now runs with no dim warning lights, even with all lights/wipers/radio on.
Will get a new one on order


