BMW i3 2014-present HVAC Specifications
BMW i3 2014-present

BMW i3 2014-present HVAC Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and maintenance guide for the 2014-Present BMW i3 HVAC system. Learn about the electric compressor, R1234yf refrigerant, climate control features, and diagnostic procedures.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the HVAC specifications for the 2014-Present BMW i3, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, focusing on its design, components, and performance metrics.

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

450 g

Blower Motor Airflow

400 m³/h

Temperature Range

16°C to 28°C

HVAC Power Consumption

1.5 kW (cooling), 2.5 kW (heating)

Filter Replacement Interval

15,000 miles or 12 months

Available Specifications

HVAC System Overview

This section provides an overview of the HVAC system in the BMW i3, including its design, components, and integration with the vehicle's electric powertrain.

System Design
  • The HVAC system is designed to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining passenger comfort.
  • Utilizes a heat pump for both heating and cooling functions.
  • Integrated with the vehicle's electric powertrain to minimize energy consumption.
  • Features a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
  • Includes a particulate filter for improved air quality.
Key Components
  • Electric compressor with a maximum power output of 3.5 kW.
  • High-voltage PTC heater for rapid cabin heating.
  • Blower motor with a maximum airflow rate of 400 m³/h.
  • Refrigerant type: R1234yf, with a capacity of 450 g.
  • Evaporator and condenser designed for efficient heat exchange.

Note: The heat pump system is particularly effective in moderate climates, reducing the load on the high-voltage battery.

Temperature Control

This section details the temperature control mechanisms within the HVAC system, including sensors, actuators, and control algorithms.

Control System
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control with independent temperature settings for driver and passenger.
  • Temperature range: 16°C to 28°C (60.8°F to 82.4°F).
  • Includes interior and exterior temperature sensors for precise control.
  • Actuators control air distribution to vents, footwells, and windshield.
  • Control algorithms optimize energy use based on ambient conditions.
Sensors and Actuators
  • Interior temperature sensor accuracy: ±0.5°C.
  • Exterior temperature sensor range: -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F).
  • Actuator response time: < 2 seconds.
  • Airflow distribution controlled by stepper motors.
  • Humidity sensor integrated for defogging and comfort.

Note: The system automatically adjusts airflow and temperature based on sensor inputs to maintain comfort and efficiency.

Air Quality Management

This section covers the air quality management features of the HVAC system, including filtration and ventilation.

Filtration System
  • Particulate filter with a filtration efficiency of 99.97% for particles > 0.3 µm.
  • Activated carbon filter for odor and gas removal.
  • Filter replacement interval: 15,000 miles or 12 months.
  • Filter housing designed for easy access and replacement.
  • Air quality sensor monitors cabin air and adjusts filtration as needed.
Ventilation
  • Recirculation mode reduces external air intake for improved efficiency.
  • Automatic ventilation mode activates based on cabin air quality.
  • Ventilation rate: 20-30 m³/h in normal operation.
  • Includes a solar sensor to adjust ventilation based on sun load.
  • Defrost and defog functions integrated into the ventilation system.

Note: The air quality sensor can detect pollutants and automatically switch to recirculation mode to protect passengers.

Energy Efficiency

This section focuses on the energy efficiency features of the HVAC system, including its impact on the vehicle's range and battery performance.

Energy Consumption
  • HVAC system power consumption: 1.5 kW in cooling mode, 2.5 kW in heating mode.
  • Heat pump reduces energy consumption by up to 50% compared to conventional systems.
  • Energy recovery from the electric drivetrain used for heating.
  • Eco Pro mode reduces HVAC power consumption to extend range.
  • Pre-conditioning feature allows cabin temperature adjustment while charging.
Impact on Range
  • HVAC system reduces vehicle range by approximately 10-15% in extreme conditions.
  • Pre-conditioning minimizes range impact by using grid power.
  • Eco Pro mode reduces HVAC load, improving range by up to 5%.
  • Heat pump extends range in cold climates by reducing heating energy use.
  • System automatically adjusts settings to balance comfort and efficiency.

Note: Pre-conditioning is most effective when the vehicle is plugged in, allowing the cabin to reach the desired temperature without draining the battery.

Component Specifications

General Specifications

System Type
Automatic Climate Control
Refrigerant Type
R1234yf
Refrigerant Capacity
500 g
Compressor Type
Electric Scroll Compressor
Compressor Power Consumption
2.5 kW
Operating Voltage
12 V DC

Heating System

Heater Type
Electric PTC Heater
Heater Power Output
5 kW
Heater Efficiency
95%
Temperature Range
-20°C to 40°C
Heater Control
Electronic Thermostat

Cooling System

Evaporator Type
Plate and Fin
Evaporator Capacity
3.5 kW
Condenser Type
Microchannel
Condenser Capacity
4.2 kW
Cooling Fan Type
Brushless DC Fan
Cooling Fan Power
150 W

Air Distribution

Blower Motor Type
Brushless DC Motor
Blower Motor Power
200 W
Airflow Capacity
400 m³/h
Air Distribution Modes
  • Face
  • Foot
  • Defrost
  • Mix
Air Filter Type
Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon

Control System

Control Unit
IHKA (Integrated Automatic Heating and Air Conditioning)
Sensors
  • Interior Temperature Sensor
  • Exterior Temperature Sensor
  • Sunload Sensor
  • Evaporator Temperature Sensor
Control interface
Touchscreen and Rotary Dial
Software Version
IHKA 4.0

Ducting And Vents

Duct Material
Thermoplastic
Vent Type
Adjustable Louver Vents
Vent Count
4 Front, 2 Rear
Duct Diameter
60 mm

Refrigerant Circuit

Refrigerant Line Material
Aluminum
Refrigerant Line Diameter
8 mm
Refrigerant Pressure High Side
15-20 bar
Refrigerant Pressure Low Side
2-4 bar
Expansion Valve Type
Thermostatic Expansion Valve

Diagnostic Specifications

Diagnostic interface
OBD-II
Fault Codes
  • P0532
  • P0533
  • P0534
  • P0535
Diagnostic Tools
  • BMW ISTA
  • Generic OBD-II Scanner
Self Diagnosis
Yes

Maintenance Specifications

Cabin Filter Replacement Interval
15,000 miles or 12 months
Refrigerant Recharge interval
Every 2 years or as needed
System inspection Interval
30,000 miles or 24 months
Lubrication Requirements
None (Sealed System)

Safety Specifications

High Pressure Cutoff
30 bar
Low Pressure Cutoff
1.5 bar
Overheat Protection
Yes
Short Circuit Protection
Yes
Leak Detection
Electronic Leak Detection

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the HVAC system

15,000
12
  • Replace Cabin Air Filter
  • Inspect Refrigerant Levels
  • Check Blower Motor Operation

Cabin air filter replacement is critical for air quality and system efficiency.

30,000
24
  • Inspect Refrigerant Lines for Leaks
  • Check Compressor Operation
  • Inspect Electrical Connections

Ensure all electrical connections are secure and free of corrosion.

60,000
48
  • Replace Refrigerant
  • Inspect and Clean Evaporator and Condenser
  • Check System for Fault Codes

Refrigerant replacement is necessary to maintain system efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the refrigerant type and capacity for the 2014-Present BMW i3 HVAC system?

The BMW i3 HVAC system uses R-1234yf refrigerant, with a total system capacity of approximately 450-500 grams. This refrigerant is environmentally friendly and complies with EU regulations.

Q2

How does the heat pump system in the BMW i3 improve efficiency?

The heat pump in the BMW i3 HVAC system recovers waste heat from the electric drivetrain and uses it to warm the cabin. This reduces energy consumption from the battery, improving overall vehicle range by up to 30% in cold weather conditions.

Q3

What is the airflow rate of the BMW i3 HVAC system?

The HVAC system in the BMW i3 delivers an airflow rate of up to 450 cubic meters per hour, ensuring efficient cabin temperature regulation and defogging performance.

Q4

Can the HVAC system be controlled remotely in the BMW i3?

Yes, the BMW i3 HVAC system can be controlled remotely via the BMW ConnectedDrive app. This allows users to pre-condition the cabin temperature before entering the vehicle, optimizing comfort and energy efficiency.

Q5

What maintenance is required for the BMW i3 HVAC system?

Regular maintenance includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the compressor and condenser, and replacing the cabin air filter every 15,000-20,000 miles. It is recommended to have the system inspected by a certified BMW technician annually.

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 i3 HVAC System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical overview of the HVAC system, including components, operation, and specifications.

Heat Pump Efficiency Guide

Coming Soon

Explains how the heat pump system in the BMW i3 improves energy efficiency and extends driving range.

Refrigerant Handling and Safety

Coming Soon

Guidelines for safely handling R-1234yf refrigerant, including storage, disposal, and safety precautions.

Remote HVAC Control Setup

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for setting up and using the BMW ConnectedDrive app to control the HVAC system remotely.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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