BMW 7 Hybrid AC Failure: Causes and Repair Costs Revealed

Hey there! I've got some experience with car maintenance, and I actually faced a similar AC issue with my 2017 BMW 5 Series Hybrid (I also considered the 7 Series at the time). Had the exact same symptoms, AC wouldn't start, and when it did, no cold air. Took it to my regular workshop and turned 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. Which year did your AC issues start? Also, are you getting any warning lights on the dashboard? These details could help confirm if we're dealing with the same problem. If it's the valves, it's not a quick fix, but at least it's a straightforward repair job.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I just had my latest service done and my odometer shows 32600 KM, so I'm pretty surprised to face AC issues this early. No warning lights showing up on the dashboard yet, which makes it even more confusing. The problems started about two weeks ago when the weather got warmer. I was hesitant to take it to the dealer since these repairs can get pretty expensive, but hearing about your similar experience with the valves gives me a good starting point. Did your AC make any unusual sounds before it completely stopped working? Mine occasionally makes a clicking noise when I try to turn it on.

Hey again! Thanks for the follow-up about your AC situation. You know, it's interesting you mentioned that clicking noise, my BMW actually did the same thing before things went south! In my case, that clicking was definitely an early warning sign that I unfortunately ignored for a couple of weeks. My car had about 45000 KM when the problems started, so you're right, it's pretty early for your car to have these issues. But these things can happen even with regular maintenance. When I first heard those clicks, I also tried to avoid going to the dealer. Big mistake on my part, ended up making the problem worse by waiting. The valve issue I had actually started pretty much the same way as yours, clicking noise, then intermittent cooling, and finally just gave up completely. One thing I didn't mention in my first response, before getting it fixed, I tried using one of those DIY AC recharge kits. Total waste of money and could've actually caused more damage. Definitely don't recommend that route. Since you're experiencing such similar symptoms to what I had, especially that clicking noise, I'd strongly suggest getting it checked sooner rather than later. Trust me, driving around in warm weather with no AC isn't fun, learned that the hard way!

Thanks so much for all these details, especially about the clicking noise and the warning about those DIY recharge kits! I was actually considering trying one of those, so you just saved me from making that mistake. You're absolutely right about getting it checked soon, especially since the symptoms match yours so closely. Think I'll bite the bullet and schedule an appointment with my dealer tomorrow. The potential 1000 euro repair cost isn't great news, but it's better than letting the problem get worse and potentially causing more damage. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's definitely helped me understand what I might be dealing with. I'll update the thread once I get it fixed in case anyone else runs into similar issues with their 7 Series!