BMW i3 AC System Dead, Common Issues & Solutions

Hey there! I've got some experience working on hybrids and faced something very similar with my 2016 BMW i8 last summer. The symptoms were exactly what you're describing, AC totally dead, wouldn't even kick in. Took it to my regular workshop and turns out it was faulty valves in the AC system. The repair set me back about 1000 Euro, but it's been working perfectly since then. Before I share more specific details from my case, could you tell me if you're getting any warning lights or unusual sounds when trying to use the AC? Also, did this happen suddenly or was it gradually getting worse? BTW, if you're interested in BMW hybrids, I also own a BMW i4 and these cars can be quite different in terms of AC system layout, so knowing more about your specific situation would help me give better advice.

Just had my latest service two months ago and everything was running great until now (150364 KM on the clock). No warning lights at all, it just stopped working out of nowhere yesterday. No strange sounds either, it's completely silent when I press the AC button. The fan doesn't even start up. Thanks for sharing your experience with the faulty valves! That's good to know. Did your mechanic mention anything about checking the fuses first? I've heard that could be a simpler fix, but I'm not sure where to locate the AC fuse in the i3.

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your i3. That's interesting, your situation sounds even more similar to what I experienced with my i8 now that you mention the complete silence when pressing the AC button. In my case, I actually did check the fuses first (and I really recommend doing this before heading to the shop). For my i8, I found the AC fuse in the fuse box under the glove compartment, should be similar in your i3. I remember checking fuse number 7 and 32, but double-check your manual to be sure. The fact that your fan isn't starting at all makes me think it might not be the valves like in my case after all. Since yours isn't making any noise at all, it could be an electrical issue, maybe the AC relay or even the control module. When my AC failed, at least the fan was still working. Given your mileage (mine was around 130000 KM when it failed), I'd also suspect the compressor might be the culprit. That's actually what I initially thought was wrong with mine before finding out about the valves. Quick question, have you noticed any slight changes in your battery performance recently? In my case, I noticed a small drop in range just before the AC died, though it turned out to be unrelated.

Thanks so much for all this detailed info! Just checked those fuses you mentioned, they all look good, which I guess means it's probably something more serious like you suggested. Honestly, I was hoping it would be a simple fuse fix, but looks like I'll need to bite the bullet and take it to the shop. No, I haven't noticed any battery performance issues lately, that's at least one good thing! The range has been pretty consistent. I'm a bit worried now about the compressor though, since you mentioned it. Makes sense given the mileage and the complete silence when trying to use the AC. I'll make an appointment with my mechanic tomorrow and definitely mention checking the relay, control module, and compressor based on your experience. Really appreciate you taking the time to help out and share your insights! I'll update the forum once I find out what the actual problem is, might help other i3 owners down the line.