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KirstenRacer

BMW 3 Hybrid A/C Dead: Compressor Failure Support Needed

Hi everyone! Having some worrying A/C issues with my 2020 BMW 3 Hybrid (22,741 km). The system won't turn on at all and there's an error code stored. Pretty sure it's linked to the compressor, but after a bad experience with my previous mechanic, I'm hesitant about where to take it. Has anyone dealt with similar A/C problems on their BMW 3? Would appreciate hearing about your experiences and recommendations for getting it fixed properly. Thanks in advance!

Summary of the thread

A 2020 BMW 3 Hybrid experienced a complete A/C failure, suspected to be linked to the compressor, with an error code stored. The issue was identified as a damaged electrical connection affecting the compressor, similar to a previous case with a BMW 5 Series Hybrid. The solution involved replacing the connector and performing a full system check, which resolved the problem. The recommendation is to have such issues addressed by a certified shop specializing in BMW hybrids to ensure proper diagnosis and repair.

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4 comment(s)

LukasBau

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW 5 Series Hybrid last summer. The A/C completely died and the diagnostic showed an undervoltage problem affecting the compressor. The system basically shut itself down as a protective measure. Initially thought it was just a fuse, but during my garage visit, they found that the compressor's electrical connector was damaged, causing intermittent power supply issues. They had to replace the entire connector assembly and recharge the A/C system. It was quite a serious repair since it involved both electrical and A/C components. In my case, driving with this issue could've potentially damaged other electrical components, so I'm glad I got it checked right away. The repair took about two days to complete since they had to order specific parts. Based on your description, it sounds very similar to what I experienced. Would strongly recommend getting it checked at a certified shop that specializes in BMW hybrids, given the complexity of these systems.

KirstenRacer (community.author)

Thanks for sharing your experience, That sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with right now. Good to know about the potential electrical connection problems, definitely don't want to risk damaging other components. Do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the fix, or have you noticed any other A/C quirks pop up? Thanks!

LukasBau

Hey again! Yes, absolutely, wanted to update you on this! After getting it fixed, my A/C has been working perfectly with no issues whatsoever. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed an undervoltage problem affecting the compressor shutdown system, just like I suspected. The total bill came to 240 € for the repair, which included fixing the electrical connection and testing everything thoroughly. Honestly, it was worth every penny considering how smoothly it's been running since then. No more unusual shutoffs or error codes, it's like having a brand new system. It's been about eight months now since the repair, and even during the hottest days, the A/C performs exactly as it should. Trust me, getting it fixed by a proper shop that knows these hybrid systems was definitely the right call. These electrical issues can be tricky, but once they're properly sorted, they tend to stay fixed. Let me know how yours turns out!

KirstenRacer (community.author)

Really appreciate all the detailed info! I actually just got back from the mechanic today. You were spot on about the electrical connection being the culprit. The technician found a damaged wire harness that was causing the compressor to shut down. Pretty similar to your situation. They had to replace the connector and do a full system check. Cost me a bit more than yours, around 300 €, but they did throw in a complete A/C service too. Just drove home and the A/C is working like a dream! Feels amazing to have cool air again, and no more warning lights on the dash. You were right about going to a specialized shop, they knew exactly what they were looking at as soon as they hooked up their diagnostic tools. Thanks again for helping me out with this. It's such a relief to have it sorted properly instead of trying to save a few bucks at a regular garage that might not understand these hybrid systems. Take care!

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BMW

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3