BMW X2 AC and Heat Failure, Control Panel Mystery

I experienced a similar issue with my 2017 BMW X1 last season. The symptoms match what you're describing, AC control malfunction and heating problems. In my case, it wasn't the solar sensor but rather a faulty connection in the HVAC control module wiring harness. The cables had come loose and were causing intermittent connection problems. During my garage visit, the tech found corroded pins in the main control unit connector. They had to replace the entire wiring harness and recalibrate the HVAC system. It wasn't a quick fix but also not a major mechanical issue. My advice would be to have them specifically check the wiring connections and control module first before replacing any sensors. The check engine light could be related since the HVAC system is tied to the car's main computer. A proper diagnostic scan should pinpoint if these issues are connected. Based on my experience, I'd recommend getting it checked soon before it potentially affects other systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful information about the wiring harness being the culprit rather than the sensor. If you don't mind me asking, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the repair? Also, has everything been working smoothly since then, or have you noticed any other quirks with the HVAC system? I want to get a sense of whether this might be a lasting fix if I end up having the same issue as you did.

Hey again! Just wanted to give you an update since I saw your questions. I actually took my X1 to the mechanic last week, and turns out it really was just the solar sensor after all, not the wiring harness like I initially thought. The mechanic found a loose cable connection to the sensor, pretty straightforward fix. Only cost me 95 € to get it sorted, which was a huge relief since I was worried it might be something more serious! Everything's been working perfectly since then, the AC's back to normal, heating works great, and that annoying check engine light is finally gone. I'm really glad I got it checked out. Sometimes these BMW sensors can be tricky, but when you find the right fix, they usually stay fixed. Honestly, way better outcome than I expected, especially after my initial wiring harness experience. Sounds like you might be dealing with the exact same issue I had. Hope this helps give you a better idea of what you might be looking at cost-wise!

Thanks for the follow-up! I actually just got back from the mechanic today. You wouldn't believe it, it turned out to be something completely different! The technician discovered a clogged drain tube that was causing moisture buildup, which messed with the whole HVAC system. Cost me around 200 bucks to get it cleaned out and have the system checked. Funny how we both went in thinking it was something major and ended up with relatively simple fixes. The mechanic was really thorough and even showed me what was causing the problem. No more cold mornings with a barely working heater! The check engine light's gone too, which is a huge relief. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it gave me the push I needed to get it checked out instead of putting it off. These BMWs can be tricky sometimes, but at least this time it wasn't anything too serious. Time to enjoy my properly working AC and heating again!