The air conditioning unit emits a foul odour.

[CheresX]

In the year 2020, the BMW X5 has an unpleasant odour emanating from the air conditioning system during the first 10 seconds upon activation.

Has anybody had the experience with that?

The dealer is suggesting the replacement of the evaporator coil.

I would value your collective perspectives. Is it advisable to replace the evaporator coil?

We express our gratitude for your input.

[Paulinelinker]

It is strongly advised to use the 'search' tool prior to initiating new discussions containing inquiries that are likely to have been addressed before.

In response to your inquiry, I would refrain from engaging in the suggested action. What is the rationale behind this request? The occurrence is likely to repeat in the future.

Please peruse the following text:

https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1662041

this:
https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1976750

this:
https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1971566

[CheresX]

Thank you for your response.

Do you have any insights about the potential origins of the odour and the necessary steps to rectify it?

[badgx]

One potential first step would be replacing the cabin filters, since this course of action has proven effective in resolving the issue for several individuals.

2021 BMW G20 M340i xDrive - Verde Ermes/Black - 07/2021.50
2019 BMW G05 X5 xDrive40i - Phytonic Blue/Cognac - 07/2022.33

[DSM10000]

^^^^^This must be a first.

[Howard_silver]

Prior to exchanging automobiles, I first attributed the presence of this scent to my spouse, three children, and two pugs. I own a residual component from my 2018 M5 automobile. I am inquiring if this particular component is compatible with the X5 model as well.

 

[VWDaveBMW]

Are you aware of the potential expenses associated with that? In order to get access to the evaporator core, it is necessary to remove the complete dashboard.

[CheresX]

I would want to express my gratitude to all those who have sent me messages.

I am uncertain about the compatibility of such items with the X5. The dealer has indicated their willingness to provide coverage for the issue under the warranty. However, as you have previously said, the resolution of the problem necessitates the removal of the whole dashboard. I am uncertain about my inclination to engage in that action, since it is believed to potentially be the source of the issue, albeit not with complete certainty. The confirmation of the source of the odour can only be ascertained upon examination of the coil.

[CheresX]

I engaged in further conversation with the dealer earlier today, seeking clarification on the basis for their identification of the evaporator coil.

Dealer’s response…

Based on our observations, it is evident that the automobile is experiencing a recurring problem. Additionally, the air conditioning sniffer has detected the presence of refrigerant in the car, which can only originate from that specific source.

I am uncertain as to whether he is providing me with false information, since the product in question is still covered by warranty, or whether he is being truthful.

Do you have any thoughts or opinions on the matter? I would much appreciate any advice.

There are two remaining months within the warranty period.

[Paulinelinker]

It is quite probable that replacing the evaporator coil will provide a temporary solution to mitigate the odour. However, it is important to note that the recurrence of the smell is contingent upon the manner in which the evaporator coil is used. The extent of this restoration is excessive, unless the implication is that it has sustained harm. In the event of damage, opting for a replacement would be the preferred course of action. I would recommend attempting to replace the cabin air filters as a first course of action. The task at hand may be completed within a time frame of 20 to 30 minutes, or alternatively, one may choose to engage the services of the dealership for its execution. An individual reported being billed a sum of $500 for a service that is beyond the scope of warranty coverage.

[ianwh4]

Do owners residing in humid areas encounter a more pronounced odour emanating from their air conditioning systems compared to those residing in dry climates? I am now residing in the state of Colorado and so far, I have not encountered this particular issue with any of my automobiles.

[DSM10000]

I am now residing in the state of Florida and I am pleased to report that none of our automobiles emit any unpleasant odours.

[Paulinelinker]

One potential solution to address the odour issue might include the use of Lysol or an air conditioner disinfectant in order to eradicate the underlying source responsible for the unpleasant scent. Please do an online search using the keywords "car air conditioner disinfectant" to get further information on the topic. There is no assurance that this approach will provide the desired outcome; yet, it is a cost-effective experiment worth attempting.

[keithmerc220]

It is advisable to expedite the process of rectifying the issue. The cost of this repair outside the warranty period exceeds $4,000. There is a strong likelihood that the evaporator coil is experiencing refrigerant leakage. The problem in question was also seen in the 2018 M550s, and a tiny percentage of G05 owners experienced it as well. The olfactory perception of the substance in question is very noxious, hence it is advisable to refrain from inhaling it, particularly if it is really a refrigerant compound.

[MrGreedy]

I am now located in New York City and have developed a routine of deactivating the air conditioning system and allowing the coils to undergo a drying process prior to the conclusion of each excursion. In the absence of appropriate measures, it is likely that an odour would gradually manifest in all of my automobiles.

The approach that was effective for me included obtaining an AC coil cleaning from AutoZone and according to the provided instructions. To maximise airflow, adjust the fan setting to its highest level and apply a spray over the external air conditioning intake of the vehicle.

Replacing the evaporator may be considered an extreme measure; nevertheless, if the warranty covers the cost of this replacement without any further charges to you, it may be a viable option. What are the reasons for not doing so?