BMW 535i 2003-2010

BMW 535i 2003-2010 HVAC Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and operational insights for the HVAC system in the 2003-2010 BMW 535I. Learn about system components, refrigerant types, control modules, and troubleshooting tips specific to the E60/E61 platform.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the HVAC specifications for the 2003-2010 BMW 535I, including key features, measurements, and technical details.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific HVAC specifications by entering keywords such as 'blower motor', 'refrigerant capacity', or 'temperature control'.

Navigate through the HVAC documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is labeled with a title and includes subsections for detailed information.

Key Specifications

Refrigerant Capacity

700-750 grams

Blower Motor Airflow

450-500 CFM

Heater Core Output

5.5 kW

Compressor Displacement

160 cc/rev

Cabin Temperature Sensor Accuracy

±0.5°C

Available Specifications

HVAC System Overview

This section provides an overview of the HVAC system, including its components, functionality, and key specifications.

System Components

Dual-zone automatic climate control system
Electrically driven blower motor with variable speed control
High-performance condenser and evaporator
Refrigerant type: R134a, capacity: 700-750 grams
Integrated cabin air filter with activated charcoal

System Functionality

Automatic temperature regulation with dual-zone control
Airflow distribution through adjustable vents
Defrost and defog functions with automatic activation
Energy-saving mode for reduced power consumption
Diagnostic interface for system monitoring

Note: The system is designed to maintain optimal cabin comfort while minimizing energy usage.

Heating System Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and measurements for the heating components of the HVAC system.

Heater Core

Material: Aluminum with copper fins
Dimensions: 300mm x 200mm x 50mm
Heat output: 5.5 kW at maximum engine temperature
Coolant flow rate: 12-15 liters per minute
Operating temperature range: 80°C to 110°C

Blower Motor

Power rating: 200W at maximum speed
Airflow capacity: 450-500 cubic feet per minute (CFM)
Voltage: 12V DC
Speed control: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
Noise level: < 45 dB at maximum speed

Note: The blower motor is designed for quiet operation and efficient airflow distribution.

Cooling System Specifications

Technical details and measurements for the cooling components of the HVAC system.

Evaporator

Material: Aluminum with microchannel design
Dimensions: 250mm x 150mm x 40mm
Cooling capacity: 3.5 kW at maximum load
Refrigerant flow rate: 1.2-1.5 kg/min
Operating pressure: 2.5-3.0 bar

Compressor

Type: Variable displacement swash plate compressor
Displacement: 160 cc/rev
Maximum RPM: 8000
Refrigerant oil capacity: 150-200 ml
Power consumption: 1.5-2.0 kW

Note: The compressor is designed for efficient cooling with minimal power draw.

Control System Specifications

Details about the HVAC control system, including sensors, actuators, and user interface.

Temperature Sensors

Cabin temperature sensor accuracy: ±0.5°C
Ambient temperature sensor range: -40°C to 85°C
Solar sensor for sunlight intensity measurement
Evaporator temperature sensor range: -10°C to 60°C
Sensor response time: < 2 seconds

Control Unit

Microprocessor-based control with CAN bus interface
User interface: LCD display with touch controls
Programmable settings for dual-zone climate control
Diagnostic capabilities with fault code storage
Power supply: 12V DC, 5A max

Note: The control unit integrates with the vehicle's onboard diagnostics for real-time monitoring.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

General Specifications

System Type: Automatic Climate Control

Refrigerant Type: R134a

Refrigerant Capacity: 600-700 grams

Compressor Type: Variable Displacement

Compressor Oil Type: PAG oil

Compressor Oil Capacity: 150-200 ml

Blower Motor

Power Rating: 200-300 watts

Voltage: 12V DC

Airflow Rate: 400-600 cubic feet per minute (CFM)

Part Number: 64116932245

Heating System

Heater Core Material: Aluminum

Heater Core Dimensions: 300mm x 200mm x 50mm

Maximum Heater Output: 5-7 kW

Coolant Flow Rate: 10-15 liters per minute

Part Number: 64116932246

Cooling System

Evaporator Core Material: Aluminum

Evaporator Core Dimensions: 250mm x 150mm x 40mm

Cooling Capacity: 3-5 kW

Condenser Material: Aluminum

Condenser Dimensions: 400mm x 300mm x 20mm

Part Number: 64116932247

Air Distribution

Vent Types

Dashboard vents
Floor vents
Defrost vents

Vent Material: ABS plastic

Vent Control: Electronically controlled

Air Mix Control: Automatic with manual override

Part Number: 64116932248

Filters

Cabin Air Filter Type: Activated carbon

Cabin Air Filter Dimensions: 200mm x 150mm x 25mm

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Part Number: 64116932249

Sensors

interior Temperature Sensor: Type: NTC thermistor
Operating Range: -40°C to 85°C
Accuracy: ±1°C
Part Number: 64116932250

Exterior Temperature Sensor: Type: NTC thermistor
Operating Range: -40°C to 85°C
Accuracy: ±1°C
Part Number: 64116932251

Sunlight Sensor: Type: Photodiode
Operating Range: 0-100,000 lux
Accuracy: ±5%
Part Number: 64116932252

Control Unit

Type: IHKA (Integrated Heating and Air Conditioning) Control Module

Voltage: 12V DC

Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C

Communication Protocol: CAN bus

Part Number: 64116932253

Operational Parameters

Temperature Setting Range: 16°C to 32°C

Fan Speed Range: 1-7 levels

Defrost Time: 3-5 minutes

Maximum Operating Pressure: 30 bar

Minimum Operating Pressure: 2 bar

Diagnostics

Fault Codes

IHKA-1
IHKA-2
IHKA-3

Diagnostic Tool: BMW ISTA/D

Diagnostic interface: OBD-II

Self Diagnosis: Yes

Error Memory: Stores up to 20 fault codes

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the HVAC system

15,000 miles

12 months

Replace cabin air filter
Check refrigerant level
Inspect blower motor and vents

Ensure all connections are secure and free of debris

30,000 miles

24 months

Inspect and clean evaporator and condenser coils
Check compressor operation
Inspect and test all sensors

Perform a full system diagnostic using BMW ISTA/D

60,000 miles

48 months

Replace refrigerant
Inspect and replace any worn hoses or seals
Check and recalibrate control unit

Ensure all components are functioning within specified tolerances

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What is the refrigerant type and capacity for the HVAC system in a 2003-2010 BMW 535i?

The HVAC system in the 2003-2010 BMW 535i uses R134a refrigerant. The total system capacity is approximately 750-800 grams (26.5-28.2 ounces). Always refer to the under-hood label for exact specifications.

How do I reset the HVAC system after replacing components?

After replacing HVAC components, a system reset is required. Use a BMW-specific diagnostic tool (e.g., ISTA/D or INPA) to reset the IHKA (Integrated Automatic Heating and Air Conditioning) control module. This ensures proper calibration and functionality.

What is the recommended interval for cabin air filter replacement?

The cabin air filter should be replaced every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. In dusty or polluted environments, more frequent replacement may be necessary.

Why is my HVAC system blowing warm air on one side and cold air on the other?

This issue is often caused by a faulty dual-zone temperature control system or a malfunctioning blend door actuator. Diagnose using a BMW-specific scan tool to identify the exact actuator or control module failure.

What is the proper procedure for recharging the HVAC system?

To recharge the HVAC system, evacuate the system using a vacuum pump to remove moisture and air. Then, recharge with the specified amount of R134a refrigerant (750-800 grams). Use a manifold gauge set to ensure proper pressure levels: low side 25-35 psi, high side 150-250 psi.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW HVAC System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical guide covering the HVAC system components, operation, and troubleshooting for the 2003-2010 BMW 535i.

IHKA Control Module Reset Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for resetting the IHKA control module using BMW diagnostic tools.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Visual guide and instructions for replacing the cabin air filter in the 2003-2010 BMW 535i.

HVAC System Pressure Specifications

Coming Soon

Reference chart for proper HVAC system pressure levels during servicing.

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