biM M-sport 0 Report post Posted May 5, 2020 New member of approx 4/5 months the BMW owners club. I purchased a 2007 120i M-sport hatch and found out right away that the stock stereo and speakers in no way complimented this vehicle, therefore change was inevitable. After installation (completed by a reputable company) of high end audio equipment i found the xmas lights on the dash going haywire, losing power and finally dying, all this whilst driving! I have read a lot of posts explaining battery, regulator, wiring, connections and alternator. That being said i decided to have a new battery installed ($400 later) which was also completed by a reputable company. Once installed the confirmed that it was "accepted" by the vehicle. A couple of days later it happened again which got me researching and concluding that i needed the alternator out and checked. Once out the evidence is clear, worn pulley, covered in oil etc etc. Anyway it requires replacing. My question: As he I.D. number was worn off and for some unknown reason my vin number is being rejected by sites such as Bosch. I am wanting to know how would one find out if this is the factory alternator or a higher amperage one? If factory, would it be a worthy option of upgrading and to what? I will also be getting the belts changed at the same time. With the Alternator being changed will the car need to be coded for the new alternator? I have had a look on TM and this is what i found https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/car-parts-accessories/bmw/electrics/listing-2606688132.htm?rsqid=387493c860df44b8ad054eb1f2754fde-001 unfortunately i cannot cross reference (numbers are worn) Please, if there is any other info needed let me know. Other than that i look forward to any advice given (hopefully not too technical) and more importantly getting her healthy and back on the road. Vehicle details: Year: 2007 Make: BMW Model: 120I Colour: WHITE Body Style: Hatchback Engine: N46B20 VIN: WBAUD32050PF47373 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
zero 1162 Report post Posted May 5, 2020 Enter the last seven digits of your vin into realoem.com That will tell you everything about your specific car, including the alternator. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
B.M.W Ltd 950 Report post Posted May 5, 2020 Go and have a talk to Jon at Auto 38 and get the right advice from him https://www.auto38bmspecialist.com/ 1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
