I have a 2001 530i. I am gone for long periods of time, and the car slowly discharges its battery running the alarm system, etc.

On my return, I typically have to do a jump start.

What I would like to do is pop off the battery leads, and then leave town. However, I had the battery replaced once -- and the mechanic was very careful to keep the system electronics alive. He did this with a small battery he plugged into the cigarette lighter socket before the disconnected the main battery.

BMW wants to sell me a battery tender to keep the battery topped up, which I am supposed to plug into the wall, but there is no outlet in the apartment garage -- nor at the Park 'n Fly.

What would be the consequences of popping the leads off the battery?

Thank you for your insights.

Regards, mcg

Your have to re-set the clock and date every time. Other then that nothing should happen. if something doesn something isnt correct.

Thank you, this is really useful info. Should save us from future jumpstart dramas, etc.