This code indicates the ECU has detected that the vehicle's electrical system voltage has dropped below the acceptable threshold – typically a failing battery, alternator, or a wiring issue. Often simple and inexpensive to fix if caught early.
P0562 on a BMW means the ECU has detected low system voltage – typically below 11.5V during cranking or below 12.5V when running. The most common cause is an ageing battery, not a failed alternator. Diagnosis is straightforward and should be done cheapest-first.
Don't assume the alternator has failed – a battery load test is always the first step. Full diagnostic order below.
The ECU constantly monitors the vehicle's electrical system voltage. P0562 is set when the voltage drops below a threshold that the ECU deems critical – typically below 11.5V during cranking or below 12.5V with the engine running. Crucially, the code describes a measurement, not a diagnosis. Low voltage could be caused by an ageing battery that no longer holds charge, a failing alternator that isn't charging, a loose or corroded connection, or even a parasitic drain. The distinction is the difference between a £100 battery and a £700 alternator, which is why the diagnostic order below matters more than the code itself. This code appears across all BMW petrol and diesel models – from N47 and N20 to B58 and N57 – and the diagnostic approach is essentially identical.
Ordered by how often each turns out to be the real culprit – with typical fitted cost against each, so you can sanity‑check any quote you've been given.
| Cause | Likelihood | Typical Cost (fitted) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ageing or failing battery | Very High | £100–£250 | Most BMW batteries last 5–7 years; check date code |
| Loose or corroded battery terminals / ground strap | High | £20–£100 | Check for corrosion, tightness at battery and chassis ground |
| Failing alternator (not charging) | Medium | £400–£700 | Test with multimeter; should output 13.5–14.5V when running |
| Parasitic drain (e.g., comfort access, aftermarket electronics) | Medium | £100–£400 | Can drain battery overnight; requires parasitic draw test |
| Loose or frayed wiring / poor connection | Low | £50–£300 | Check alternator wiring, main fuse box connections |
Cost figures [PATTERN DATA] – indicative independent BMW specialist pricing, not drawn from our engine replacement dataset.
Use a multimeter to measure battery voltage with the engine off (should be 12.5V+). Then start the car – voltage should rise to 13.5–14.5V.
A proper battery load test will tell you if the battery can deliver enough cold cranking amps. Many factors, including age, are revealed.
Remove, clean, and retighten battery terminals. Check the main chassis ground connection for corrosion.
With the engine running, check voltage at the battery. If it's below 13.5V, the alternator or its wiring is suspect.
If the battery is good but drains overnight, a parasitic draw test identifies the offending circuit.
Our diagnostic wizard walks the same order, or confirm your engine with the registration lookup.
Conditionally – only for very short distances. P0562 indicates the electrical system is struggling. If the alternator has failed, you may only have minutes of driving before the battery is depleted and the engine stalls. Modern BMWs with electric power steering, water pumps, and sensitive electronics can shut down unexpectedly. If you notice dim lights, warning messages, or the car feels sluggish, pull over safely and call for recovery. Do not attempt a long motorway journey – the risk of a sudden shutdown is real.
Only for very short distances to a garage. If the alternator has failed, the battery will discharge quickly and the car may stall. If you notice dim lights or warning messages, stop and call for recovery.
No. An ageing battery is far more common – especially on BMWs with stop-start systems that put extra strain on the battery. Always check the battery first.
Only temporarily. The code will return as soon as the voltage drops again – often within a few seconds of starting. Clearing it erases freeze‑frame data that helps with diagnosis.
Expect 1–2 hours of diagnostic time at an independent BMW specialist, typically £100–£200. Many specialists will waive or offset this if you proceed with the repair.
Batteries are considered consumable items and are rarely covered under warranty beyond the first 2–3 years. However, some alternator issues were subject to recalls on certain models. Check your VIN against BMW UK recalls or use our recall checker.
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