BMW X5 Heat Failure: Troubleshooting Common Valve Issues

Hey there! I had a somewhat similar issue with my 2013 BMW X3 last winter (I've got some experience working on cars, mostly basic maintenance stuff). The symptoms were pretty close to what you're describing, weak heat output and temperature differences between zones. Took it to my regular workshop and turned out it was just a faulty connection in one of the cables going to the climate control unit. Fixed it for around 95 Euro, mostly labor costs for diagnosing and fixing the connection. Was pretty relieved it wasn't the water pump or something more serious! Could you share what error code you're getting? Also, does the temperature fluctuate while driving, or is it consistently weak? This info would help figure out if you're dealing with the same issue I had or something different. These BMWs (like my old 3 Series too) can be tricky with their heating systems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My situation seems a bit different though. Just had my service done last month at 16812 KM, and the temp stays consistently low across drives. The error code is P0597, which points more towards the thermostat heater control circuit. Really hoping it won't turn into a major repair job since these X5s can get pretty expensive to fix. Been driving BMWs for a while, but this is my first heating system issue. The dealership quoted me a pretty high repair cost, so I'm checking around for alternatives.

Oh yeah, I totally get what you're dealing with now! That P0597 code is definitely different from what I experienced. When you mentioned the thermostat heater control circuit, it actually reminds me of an issue I had with my previous X3 (before my current one). The symptoms were really similar, consistently low heat output, but I initially thought it was the water valve too. Ended up being the thermostat itself. These electronic thermostats in BMWs can be pretty finicky, and when they start acting up, they typically need replacing rather than repairing. I know what you mean about those dealer quotes, they nearly gave me a heart attack with their initial estimate! I ended up going to a really good independent BMW specialist who charged about half of what the dealership wanted. The parts weren't cheap (around 180-200), but the labor was way more reasonable. Quick tip though, make sure whoever works on it clears the adaptive values in the DME after replacing the thermostat. I learned this the hard way when my first repair didn't quite solve the problem completely. After they reset everything, it worked perfectly. Have you noticed any changes in your fuel consumption? When my thermostat was acting up, I was burning through fuel a bit faster than usual.

Thanks so much for that detailed insight! Actually, yes, now that you mention it, I have noticed my fuel consumption's been higher lately. I've been blaming it on the cold weather, but it makes sense that it could be related to the thermostat issue. Really appreciate the tip about clearing the DME values, that's exactly the kind of specific info I was hoping to get! I think I'll skip the dealership and look for a reputable independent specialist. The price range you mentioned sounds way more reasonable than what I was quoted. Your experience with the electronic thermostat seems spot-on with what I'm experiencing. Feels much better knowing someone else has successfully dealt with this without breaking the bank. Honestly, it's such a relief to hear this is likely just the thermostat and not something more complex. Was starting to worry it might be multiple issues. I'll make sure to ask about those adaptive values when I take it in. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, definitely helped me figure out my next steps!