Expert: Josh Fields - 3/5/2006

Question
Josh,
My battery (I would guess it to be the original) is going dead, after sitting for 12-hours or so the car will not start - especially if the theft warning system (doors locked) is on.  I am having trouble finding a battery for the 2001 740iL other than the dealer ($235 for one).  Any idea where I can find a battery for this model and if not, can any "international" battery that I can get into the trunk area work -- or does it have to be specifically made for the 740iL ?
Thanks,
Tom Hull

Answer
Tom,
Unless the 740i battery is a weird shape, then any battery should work.  Look at the battery that's currently in the car, and get some numbers off of it.  Take note of Cranking Amps, Cold Cranking Amps, and measure the size of the battery.  Then go to an autoparts store and find one that physically fits, has the same cranking capacity, and cold cranking amps.

 Hope this helps,
 Josh