BMW Electrical Gremlins

[Big Easy]

Hi all, I'm looking for some advice with some electrical issues in my BMW Z4 Coupe. Here's the symptoms:

- one of the speakers has started buzzing when the ignition is on, even if the radio is turned off.
- the warning light on the dash for low windscreen washer fluid level comes on every time I start the car, then goes off after a minute, even after I've topped it right up.
- when I started the car the other day I noticed the clock has is now showing --:-- and the trip computer reset itself. It's never done this in my 7 years of ownership.

Is it likely that these issues are related or should I just replace the speaker and washer fluid tank / sensor and hope for the best?

[finlo]

More likely time for a new battery.

[Big Easy]

finlo said:

More likely time for a new battery.

Thanks. The battery is a couple of years old, but I'll get it checked out.

[AW10]

Check under the mats, under the seats and in the boot for any signs of damp or worse.

Also worth monitoring the electrical system voltage to see if the alternator is putting out too many volts which can cause all sorts of odd issues.

[Big Easy]

Issue Resolved

After a lot of investigation, the static issue turned out to be caused by a loose connection on the back of the head unit. The clock issue was likely caused by the battery level dropping lower than ideal due to lack of use.