BMW i3 Climate Control Failure: Ventilation Flap Issues?

Hi there! Got some experience with a similar issue on my 2016 BMW i8 (also had a chance to work on an X5 Hybrid). I'd say I have some experience with hybrid BMWs. Had almost identical symptoms, AC not cooling and climate control going crazy. Turned out to be a loose cable connection at the ventilation control module. My trusted mechanic found that during inspection, and it was a pretty straightforward fix. Cost me 95 Euro for the diagnostic and reconnecting everything properly. To help you better, could you share: Any specific error codes you're getting? When did the problem start? Does it happen all the time or intermittently? Sounds very similar to what I dealt with, but best to check these details to be sure.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Had my last service just 2 months ago at 144797 KM. The error codes I'm getting are B7B8F1 and B7B8F2. The issue started about a week ago, and yeah, it's constant, not coming and going. The AC just won't work at all now. Good to hear yours was just a loose connection, hoping mine's that simple too. Did your mechanic need any special diagnostic tools for the hybrid system to pinpoint the exact issue?

Hey again! Thanks for providing those details about your i3. Those error codes (B7B8F1 and B7B8F2) actually ring a bell, they showed up on my i8 too. In my case, while it was indeed a loose connection, the mechanic did need BMW's specific diagnostic system to properly identify the issue. When I had the problem, they used their ISTA+ diagnostic tool, it's pretty much essential for these hybrid systems. The mechanic explained that these cars are quite sensitive to any electrical irregularities, and the diagnostic tool helps pinpoint exactly where the problem is in the system. Since yours started suddenly and is constant (like mine was), it does sound very similar. However, given that you've got higher mileage than I had when my issue occurred, it might be worth having them check the actuator motor too. That's another common failure point I learned about while they were working on my car. One thing I'd suggest, make sure whoever looks at it has experience with BMW hybrids specifically. When I first got the issue, I took it to a regular shop and they were a bit lost with the hybrid system. The BMW specialist made all the difference. Let me know what you find out, I'm curious if it turns out to be the same issue as mine!

Thanks so much for all that detailed info! Really helpful to hear about the ISTA+ diagnostic tool, I'll definitely make sure to find a shop that has that equipment. You're absolutely right about needing someone who knows these hybrids, I was actually thinking of taking it to my regular mechanic but now I'll look for a BMW specialist instead. The actuator motor is a good point too, hadn't thought about that being a potential issue with the higher mileage. I'll have them check that while they're at it. Really hoping it's just a loose connection like yours was, but at least now I know what to ask them to look for. I'll update you once I get it checked out, fingers crossed it's a straightforward fix like yours was! Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's been super helpful in figuring out my next steps.