BMW i8 Climate Control Issues: Solar Sensor Failure?

Hey there! I've got some experience with BMWs, having dealt with similar HVAC issues in my 2017 BMW i3. I'm what you'd call someone with some experience, I do basic maintenance but leave the complex stuff to the pros. Last month, my climate control was showing similar symptoms, unresponsive controls and heating problems. Took it to my trusted workshop, and it turned out to be a loose connection in the control module wiring. The mechanic found that some cables had worked themselves loose over time. The fix wasn't too complicated, they had to reconnect and secure the cables properly. Cost me 95 Euro and it's been working perfectly since. Before I can give you more specific advice, could you share: Are you getting any specific error codes? When did these symptoms first appear? Does the issue happen consistently or intermittently? Might be able to point you in a more specific direction with that info. BMWs are pretty similar across models when it comes to climate control systems, especially the i series.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got 78502 KM on my i8 and just had my service last month. The error code is E-346 (climate control system malfunction). The symptoms started about a week ago, and it's pretty consistent, happens every time I start the car. The AC panel lights up but won't respond to any inputs, and the heating only works on the lowest setting. My last mechanic visit didn't catch this since everything was working fine then. Weird how these things pop up right after a service, right? I'll definitely check the wiring connection issue you mentioned, that seems like a good starting point before I shell out for major repairs.

Hey again! Thanks for those details about your i8. Yeah, it's super frustrating when issues pop up right after a service, I totally get that! Actually, after I posted about my wiring issue, I remembered something else that happened with my i3 last year that sounds even more similar to what you're describing. I had that exact same error code (E-346), and like yours, my AC panel would light up but wouldn't respond. Initially thought it was the wiring like my previous issue, but it turned out to be the climate control module itself that was failing. The weird thing is, mine also started acting up shortly after a routine service. The module was partially working (just like yours, only giving minimal heat), but it kept getting worse. I ended up having to replace the entire climate control module. It was pricier than the wiring fix, around 800 Euro with labor, but it solved all the issues immediately. Since you're seeing such similar symptoms to what I experienced, I'd suggest getting the module checked first rather than messing with the wiring. The solar sensor usually gives different symptoms, like unusual temperature fluctuations, which isn't what you're describing. Want me to share what diagnostic steps my mechanic took before replacing the module? Could help you avoid some unnecessary costs.

Thanks so much for that detailed follow-up! That's super helpful, especially about the climate control module versus the solar sensor. You're right, my symptoms do match yours exactly. Would definitely appreciate those diagnostic steps your mechanic took! I've got an appointment scheduled for next week, and I'd like to go in knowing what to expect. Really glad I asked here first, might've wasted time checking the wrong things. Sounds like I should prepare for potentially replacing the module, though I'm hoping it might be something simpler. At least now I know what questions to ask the mechanic. Will keep you posted on what they find, might help someone else with similar issues down the line!