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12 31 009 Checking alternator and regulator switch

Test requirements: 

Connect DIS Tester. 

If charge indicator lamp is permanently lit:

Remove voltage regulator and check carbon brushes, replace if necessary.

Replace alternator regulator switch.

NOTE: Minimum length of carbon brushes "A" = 5 mm.
Fig 1: Identifying Minimum Length Of Carbon Brushes
G03152863Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If charge indicator lamp goes out while engine is running:

Check control voltage.

Regulator switch must be replaced if control voltage is not achieved.

Replace alternator regulator switch.

From E46/E39 with multifunction regulator. 

Recognizable by plug connection on regulator.

Connect DIS Tester.

Oscillogram for a fault-free alternator: 

Fig 2: Identifying Oscillogram For Fault-Free Alternator
G03152864Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oscillogram for a faulty alternator: 

One phase interrupted.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 3: Identifying Oscillogram For Faulty Alternator
G03152865Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Interterm fault.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 4: Identifying Interterm Fault
G03152866Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in negative diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 5: Identifying Open Circuit In Negative Diode
G03152867Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Short circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 6: Identifying Short Circuit In Positive Diode
G03152868Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in positive diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 7: Identifying Open Circuit In Positive Diode
G03152869Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Open circuit in exciter diode.

Repair/exchange alternator.

Fig 8: Identifying Open Circuit In Exciter Diode
G03152870Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.