BMW 528i 2011-2016

BMW 528i 2011-2016 Electrical Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the electrical system of the 2011-2016 BMW 528i, including wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, and control module configurations. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 14, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the electrical specifications for the 2011-2016 BMW 528I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific electrical specifications by entering keywords such as 'battery voltage', 'fuse ratings', or 'wiring diagrams'.

Navigate through the electrical documentation sections using the table of contents or by clicking on the section headers in the sidebar.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

12V

Alternator Output

180A

Fuse Rating Range

5A - 40A

Headlight Power

35W (Xenon) / 25W (LED)

Grounding Resistance

< 0.1 ohms

Available Specifications

Battery and Charging System

Detailed information about the battery, alternator, and charging system specifications

Battery Specifications

Battery type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
Battery voltage: 12V
Battery capacity: 90Ah
Cold cranking amps (CCA): 850A
Battery dimensions: 353mm x 175mm x 190mm

Alternator Specifications

Alternator output: 180A
Voltage regulation: 13.5V - 14.8V
Alternator type: Bosch or Valeo
Pulley diameter: 55mm
Weight: 6.5kg

Note: Ensure proper belt tension to avoid alternator failure.

Fuse and Relay System

Information about fuse ratings, locations, and relay configurations

Fuse Box Locations

Primary fuse box: Located in the glove compartment
Secondary fuse box: Located in the trunk
Engine compartment fuse box: Located near the battery
Fuse ratings range: 5A to 40A

Relay Configurations

Main relay: 30A, controls power distribution
Fuel pump relay: 20A, located in the trunk fuse box
Starter relay: 40A, located in the engine compartment
Headlight relay: 15A, located in the glove compartment

Note: Always replace relays with the same rating to avoid electrical issues.

Lighting System

Specifications for exterior and interior lighting components

Exterior Lighting

Headlight type: Bi-Xenon or LED
Headlight power: 35W (Xenon) or 25W (LED)
Taillight power: 21W
Fog light power: 55W
Turn signal power: 21W

Interior Lighting

Dome light power: 10W
Reading light power: 5W
Ambient lighting: LED, 1.5W per strip
Trunk light power: 5W

Note: LED interior lights are not user-replaceable and require professional service.

Wiring and Connectors

Details about wiring harnesses, connectors, and grounding points

Wiring Harness Specifications

Main harness length: 12 meters
Wire gauge range: 0.5mm² to 6mm²
Harness material: Heat-resistant PVC
Connector types: AMP, Tyco, and Bosch

Grounding Points

Engine block grounding point: M8 bolt
Chassis grounding point: M6 bolt
Battery grounding cable: 16mm²
Grounding resistance: < 0.1 ohms

Note: Ensure all grounding points are clean and free of corrosion.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Battery

Type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)

Voltage: 12V

Capacity: 90Ah

Cold Cranking Amps: 850A

Part Number: 61212353810

Maintenance: Maintenance-free

Replacement interval: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Alternator

Type: Bosch

Output: 180A

Voltage: 14V

Part Number: 12317586910

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Replacement interval: 100,000 miles

Starter Motor

Type: Bosch

Power: 1.4kW

Voltage: 12V

Part Number: 12412353810

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Replacement interval: 100,000 miles

Fuse Box

Location: Passenger compartment and engine bay

Fuse Types

Mini
Standard
Maxi

Fuse Ratings

5A
7.5A
10A
15A
20A
25A
30A

Main Fuse: 150A

Part Number: 61356912345

Wiring Harness

Material: Copper with PVC insulation

Wire Gauge Range

0.5mm²
0.75mm²
1.0mm²
2.5mm²
4.0mm²

Length: Approximately 1500 meters

Part Number: 61126912345

Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 120°C

Lighting System

Headlights: Type: Xenon HID
Wattage: 35W
Color Temperature: 4300K
Part Number: 63127123456

Taillights: Type: LED
Wattage: 10W
Part Number: 63217123456

Fog Lights: Type: Halogen
Wattage: 55W
Part Number: 63317123456

Sensors

Oxygen Sensor: Type: Heated
Voltage: 12V
Part Number: 11787586910
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 800°C

Crankshaft Position Sensor: Type: Magnetic
Voltage: 5V
Part Number: 12147586910
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 150°C

Camshaft Position Sensor: Type: Hall Effect
Voltage: 12V
Part Number: 12147586911
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 150°C

Control Modules

Engine Control Module: Type: Bosch MEVD17.2
Voltage: 12V
Part Number: 12347586910
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 85°C

Body Control Module: Type: Siemens
Voltage: 12V
Part Number: 61356912346
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 85°C

Transmission Control Module: Type: ZF
Voltage: 12V
Part Number: 12347586911
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 85°C

Charging System

Charging Voltage: 14.2V to 14.8V

Charging Current: Up to 180A

Battery Management System: Type: Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS)
Part Number: 61356912347
Operational Temperature Range: -40°C to 85°C

Alternator Regulator: Type: Integrated
Voltage Regulation: 14.2V to 14.8V
Part Number: 12347586912

Diagnostic System

Diagnostic Port: Type: OBD-II
Location: Under dashboard, driver's side
Protocols: ISO 15765-4 (CAN), ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000), ISO 9141-2

Diagnostic Tools

BMW ISTA
BMW INPA

Error Codes: Range: P0000 to P2999
Description: Powertrain and emissions related

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10,000 miles

12 months

Check battery voltage and charge level
Inspect alternator and starter motor connections
Check all fuses for integrity

Perform visual inspection of wiring harness for wear or damage

30,000 miles

36 months

Replace oxygen sensor if necessary
Inspect and clean all electrical connectors
Check and replace any blown fuses

Ensure all control modules are functioning correctly

60,000 miles

72 months

Replace battery if necessary
Inspect and replace alternator if necessary
Check and replace starter motor if necessary

Perform comprehensive diagnostic scan using BMW ISTA

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What is the voltage of the battery in the 2011-2016 BMW 528i?

The 2011-2016 BMW 528i is equipped with a 12-volt lead-acid battery. The battery capacity typically ranges from 70 Ah to 90 Ah, depending on the specific model year and optional equipment.

What is the alternator output for the 2011-2016 BMW 528i?

The alternator in the 2011-2016 BMW 528i has an output of approximately 180 amps. This ensures sufficient power for the vehicle's electrical systems, including advanced features like the iDrive system and adaptive headlights.

How do I reset the battery registration after replacement?

After replacing the battery, the vehicle's power management system must be reset using a BMW-specific diagnostic tool, such as ISTA or a compatible OBD-II scanner with BMW software. This ensures the system recognizes the new battery and adjusts charging parameters accordingly.

What is the fuse rating for the headlights in the 2011-2016 BMW 528i?

The fuse rating for the headlights in the 2011-2016 BMW 528i is typically 15 amps. Always refer to the fuse box diagram located in the owner's manual or on the fuse box cover for exact specifications.

Can I upgrade the electrical system to support additional accessories?

Upgrading the electrical system to support additional accessories is possible but requires careful planning. Consult a BMW-certified technician to ensure compatibility with the vehicle's power management system and to avoid overloading the alternator or battery.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 528i Electrical System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed guide covering the electrical system components, including wiring diagrams and troubleshooting tips.

Battery Replacement and Registration Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the battery and registering it with the vehicle's power management system.

Fuse Box Diagram and Specifications

Coming Soon

Comprehensive fuse box diagram with fuse ratings and locations for the 2011-2016 BMW 528i.

Alternator Testing and Replacement

Coming Soon

Technical guide for testing alternator output and replacing the alternator in the 2011-2016 BMW 528i.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

Facebook Contact

15+ Years

Experience

500+ Guides

Guides

50+ Makes

Vehicles

1000+ Solutions

Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

ASE Master Technician Certification
Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.

Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information

All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.

Intellectual Property

All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.