E46 Aircon

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The aircon on my E46 is not working as it should. After the vehicle has been parked for some time and I start the car, I notice that the outside temperature reading flashes on the display panel on the instrutment cluster and reads -22 degrees. The aircon compressor doesn't switch on but the fan works. After driving for a while and the external temp reading gradually changes the aircon eventually kicks in at about -8 degrees reading.

Any ideas on how to fix?

 

[Sankekur]

First thing to look at would be the outside temperature sensor, as that reading can't be right. It is located on the bottom of the front bumper on the passenger side, just in front of the wheel.

It would make sense that the aircon won't work if it thinks the outside temperature is -22degrees C, as the magnetic clutch on the AC compressor is varied depending on different factors, I am guessing outside temperature is one of them.

 

[Theo D]

Any updates or feedback on what happened with the aircon ?
I'm having similar trouble with my e46...

 

[Prev]

The temp sensor in the front bumper was loose and not reading properly. Its located on the bottom LHS of the bumper. Got the car jacked up, got under and found it loose. Push the sensor back firmly and it started reading the temperature properly. Aircon is working properly again - just need to service the whole system now ie. compressor oil change, regas etc.

 

[Theo D]

Cool ! :thumbs:

 

[Prev]

No probs buddy. Hope it helps you to sort out the problem. :thumbs:

 

[Alister ///M]

i had the exact same problem on my e46. it was readin -50C, replaced it, problem solved.

im glad you got it done without forking out :thumbs: