BMW X3: Climate Control System Not Responding, Help!

Hey there! I've got some experience working on cars, and I actually had a super similar issue with my 2017 BMW X5. The symptoms were exactly like what you're describing, AC being unresponsive and weak heating. After taking it to my regular workshop, they found it was just a faulty cable connection to the climate control module. The fix wasn't too complicated, they replaced some wiring and a connector, cost me around 95 Euro. If you've got the same problem, it might be worth checking if it's also a connection issue before replacing the solar sensor. Could you share what error code you're getting? Also, is your fan blowing at all, or is it completely dead? This info would help figure out if you're dealing with the same problem I had. By the way, if you want to get it checked, I'd recommend going to a shop that specializes in BMW, they'll know exactly where to look for these typical connection issues.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I just hit 60836 KM, and my fan is actually still blowing, but it's really inconsistent. Sometimes it works fine, then suddenly starts acting up. The error code I'm getting is P0531. I haven't noticed any strange noises, but I'm worried it might get worse if I leave it too long. The AC issue started right after my latest service, which is making me wonder if something got knocked loose during the maintenance. I'll definitely check out those cable connections you mentioned before jumping to replace the sensor. Anyone else have thoughts on this?

Hey again! Thanks for getting back with those details. It's really interesting that your issue started right after servicing, that definitely rings a bell! When I had my X5 problem, I also noticed the fan being inconsistent like yours before the whole thing went haywire. That P0531 code you're getting, that's actually different from what I had (mine was throwing a P0537), but they're both related to the AC system. Since you mentioned it started after servicing, I'm even more convinced it could be a connection issue like I had. When they did my service, they actually had to remove some components to access other parts, and in the process, some connections got a bit loose. Here's what I'd suggest based on my experience, get them to check the wiring near the blower motor and the connections to the climate control module first. Since your fan is still working (even though it's inconsistent), it's probably not a complete failure like mine was. Could save you some money compared to replacing the solar sensor straight away. Quick question, have you noticed if the issue gets worse when it's really hot outside? Mine did, and it turned out that was because the loose connection was more affected by heat.

Thanks everyone! I really appreciate all the help and advice. The situation makes more sense now, especially hearing about your similar experience with the loose connections after servicing. I'll definitely get those wiring connections checked out first before replacing any expensive parts. I've been monitoring it today, and you're right about the heat thing, it does seem to act up more when the car's been sitting in the sun. I'm going to call my service center tomorrow and have them look specifically at those connections near the blower motor and climate control module. Since they did the recent service, maybe they'll even check it out for free. Thanks again for sharing your experience, it's saved me from jumping straight to replacing the solar sensor. I'll update once I get it checked out, in case anyone else runs into similar issues with their BMW!