PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Loans
Car Loan
Compare Car Loans with Jerry
Jerry's Expert Advice
Car Loan Guides
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
What does it mean when a BMW won’t start and the display reads increased battery discharge?
I just tried to start my BMW and the engine won’t turn over. The display shows the message “increased battery discharge.” What does that mean, and what do I do about it?
Patrick Price · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The ‘decreased battery discharge’ message in a BMW means that you’re draining the battery faster than the alternator can recharge it. This could be the result of:
- Frequent short trips
- Loose battery connectors
- Too many chargers/devices plugged into the car’s system
- An old/worn-out battery
If you’ve seen that message and the car won’t start, it means that the battery has been being drained faster than it can charge for a while—and now it lacks sufficient charge to start the engine. If your battery is more than five years old, you likely just need to replace it.
If your battery isn’t old, but you frequently take very short trips (which doesn’t give the battery time to recharge after starting the engine), then it’s simply a matter of your driving habits. Jumpstart the battery and consider walking to nearby locations in the future.
In any case, it’s probably a good idea to have a professional examine your battery —that way you’ll know what is causing the increased drain on your BMW battery. While the technician is looking over your vehicle, you can use the extra time to reduce
the cost of your car insurance
using Jerry
—the secure super app
and policy comparison tool. Using Jerry only takes 15-20 minutes and saves drivers an average of $800+ a year! You can use the app today for free to find great deals on
BMW insurance
!View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
