Help - Idiot put his battery in backwards! :-(

[Johnnyboy101]

So... I bought a 325i a few weeks ago. Decided to get a new battery because the PO was using an improper size. Both terminals use black wires... And I hooked it up backwards . I didn't realize my mistake until after I had tried starting the car. Went back and swapped the terminals around. The car starts but now battery light and antilock brake light is on (even when the car is off) There is a burning smell coming from the alternator. I am guessing that is toast. Windows work, lights work, no radio though. I am hoping it is just the alternator and radio... Anything else I should look for???

[StereoInstaller1]

A lottery ticket

[e38740imd]

:rofl

[RampageRR]

Make sure you inspect the larger cable that goes from the alternator to the starter - it very well could have melted. If so, BavRest sells a kit that replaces it and a few others.

[Johnnyboy101]

I got lucky! Swapped out alternator and abs relay and haven't had any other issues. No lottery ticket though...

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[ThatOneEuroE30]

How do you mix up terminals? Look at the wires one mounts to your 1/4 panel the other one actually runs to front of car. Or always put the wire on the left on the positive terminal.

[cirrusblue]

Yes, the abs relay should be all you need for that part at least... I had a body shop do that to me one time and went through that.