BMW 3 Hybrid AC Dead, Compressor Issue or Something Else?

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars and had a very similar issue with my 2012 BMW 5 Series Hybrid (also owned a 7 Series before). Had exactly the same symptoms, AC completely dead, warning light, the works. Took it to my trusted workshop and turns out it was a faulty AC control unit, not the compressor. Total repair cost me 980 Euro, including parts and labor. Not cheap, but at least it wasn't the compressor which would've been even more expensive. Can you share your exact error code and which warning light you're seeing? Also, any unusual noises before it stopped working? This would help confirm if you're dealing with the same issue I had. Feel free to ask any other questions, happy to help!

Thanks for sharing your experience! I'm seeing the same warning light and symptoms with my 3 Series (162547 KM). Mine's making a slight clicking sound when trying to turn on the AC, which might be different from your case. I'll get the exact error code when I'm back at my car and share it with you. Was your repair done at a BMW specialist or regular workshop? Just trying to figure out my best option here before bringing it in.

Hey again! Yeah, that clicking sound is definitely different from what I experienced with my 5 Series. When mine failed, it just wouldn't respond at all, no clicking or anything. That clicking noise you're describing actually makes me think it might be the compressor after all in your case. I got mine fixed at an independent BMW specialist workshop. Was really happy with their work, they actually showed me the faulty control unit and explained everything. Given the symptoms you're describing, especially that clicking sound, I'd definitely recommend going to a BMW specialist rather than a regular workshop. They'll have the right diagnostic tools and experience with these specific models. Just a heads up though, if it is the compressor, you're probably looking at a bigger bill than what I paid. Mine was just the control unit, but a full compressor replacement could run quite a bit higher. Still, better to get it checked out sooner rather than later to prevent any additional damage to the AC system. Keep me posted about that error code when you get it. Curious to see if it matches what I had with mine or points to something else entirely.

Thanks so much for the detailed advice! Just checked the error code, it's different from what you mentioned for your control unit issue, which makes me even more convinced it's probably the compressor. Definitely going to take your suggestion and book it with a BMW specialist. Better to get it done right the first time, even if it costs more. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and help me figure this out. Will probably book it in next week and see what they say. Fingers crossed it won't completely break the bank, but at least I'm more prepared now knowing what I might be dealing with. Thanks again for all your help!