Replacing air/heater control unit - trim removal??

[JamesK88]

Hello there,

The air-conditioning (climate) currently isn't functioning - E85 2008 Z4 (2.0 i Sport; RHD).

I had it in the garage last week to be looked at, they re-gassed it and did some tests - apparently all components function, no leaks detected and the system manually functions... however the air-con won't work from pressing the AC button inside the car.

They believe the actual heater/AC dial control unit is at fault. Everything else seems to function on it though (increase/decrease fan or temperature etc.). I had the electronic engine fan replaced 2 years ago.

I've found a replacement part from a breakers to give it a go but haven't a clue where to start in order to remove the trim that is in the way. I've found plenty of guides for the top silver trim removal but nothing for the lower dark trim that is in front of the air/heater control unit.

Anyone have any guides to point me in the right direction?

Much appreciated!

 

[mac27040]

are you sure its not in transport mode, that stops the a/c from working. you need to code the car or a dealer could do it

 

[mac27040]

you need to remove top air vents, then radio so you can get to the back of the heater controls, also underneath the heater controls is a plastic rectangular cover which just pulls off.
thats how you get to it.

 

[stupot67]

Hi James,

You will need to remove the stereo (This will require you to temove the centre grill, which can be a faff if you haven't done it before).

The fixing screws are on top of the heater control unit, and the whole unit lifts out, thru the cover above the roof control panel - Once you've got the grill out it's a five minute job.

The other thing to consider, ate you sure the car isn't in "Transport mode", can happen if the car has been left with a flat/disconnected battery for a while.

Stu

 

[stupot67]

Neils beaten me too it...... :roll:

 

[Sdanahy]

Just to add to this old thread. When taking the control unit off, yes there are the two screws on the top, but there are also tabs on either side that you need to release from underneath the control unit (why you need to remove the rectangular dash panel below the unit). Pelican Parts has a good guide on their site.
https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/BMW_Z4M/164-ELEC-IHKA_Panel_Replacement/164-ELEC-IHKA_Panel_Replacement.htm