When I tried to start my 05 Mini Cooper S the systems went crazy. All gauges, hvac motors making noises and the headlights flashing. Nothing from the starter.
I disconnected batt ground, activated flashers to empty capacitors, waited to re connect and no change.
Anyone experience this?

Thanks for any help
Tom

 

Sounds like a bad battery. You've more than likely have a bad cell. Get it tested. Also check your battery cables and the main ground at the passengerside motor mount.

 

You are correct. Fairly new battery but started my troubleshooting there and 9.6 volts. Charged battery, and car started. Checked ignition on v - 12.4. Started engine and v is 12.3. Bad word but I assume the alternator is bad.

Seems like changing the alternator is a major repair!

 

Its actually not that bad. You will need a belt tool to remove the belt and you will need to put the vehicle in service position. There are several threads on how to do that. All in all its not that difficult.