BMW 328i xDrive Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection at your home or office.

Our certified mobile mechanics come to you 7 days a week between 7 AM and 9 PM.

Estimate price near me

Service Location

Customer Ratings

(167)

How A Diagnostic Works

Instantly book a certified mobile mechanic to come to you

Mechanic diagnoses the problem and quotes necessary repairs

Your vehicle is ready to go

Fair, upfront & transparent pricing for all services

Our certified mobile mechanics can come to you now.

Customer Ratings

(167)

Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection Service

How much does a Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection cost?

On average, the cost for a BMW 328i xDrive Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection is $95 with $0 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2010 BMW 328i xDriveL6-3.0LService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$114.99Shop/Dealer Price$132.49 - $145.62
2014 BMW 328i xDriveL4-2.0L TurboService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.52 - $125.67
2015 BMW 328i xDriveL4-2.0L TurboService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.52 - $125.67
2009 BMW 328i xDriveL6-3.0LService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.48 - $125.60
2013 BMW 328i xDriveL4-2.0L TurboService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.55 - $125.72
2016 BMW 328i xDriveL4-2.0L TurboService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.52 - $125.67
2013 BMW 328i xDriveL6-3.0LService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$99.99Shop/Dealer Price$117.28 - $130.25
2011 BMW 328i xDriveL6-3.0LService typeCar surges when air conditioning is on InspectionEstimate$99.99Shop/Dealer Price$117.94 - $131.39
Show example BMW 328i xDrive Car surges when air conditioning is on Inspection prices

For most of us, turning on the AC on a hot summer day is a relief. Cooled air fills the cabin and you’re able to relax and drive comfortably. However, if your car surges with the AC on, then there’s definitely a problem that needs to be hunted down and repaired.

How this system works:

First, understand that this problem isn’t tied to just one system – it’s a combination of different things. When your AC turns on, it puts a load on the engine (the engine is responsible for turning the compressor, which builds pressure in the system, which allows low-pressure, gaseous refrigerant to be turned into high-pressure liquid and used in your cooling system.

When the engine is put under a load by the AC system, the car’s computer automatically attempts to compensate for that by adjusting the idle. If there is carbon buildup within any part of the system, including the idle air control valve, throttle body, or possibly even the EGR valve, it can cause surging. The car’s computer essentially miscalculates the amount of power necessary, and ends up overshooting, leading to a surging engine.

Any problem with the AC system can also exacerbate this condition. For instance, if the system is low on refrigerant, the compressor will kick on more often, causing the surging to increase in frequency (if not in intensity).

Common reasons for this to happen:

Carbon Buildup: A number of engine components are subject to carbon buildup over time, and this can place a significant load on the engine. When the additional load of your AC compressor is added, it causes the computer to miscalculate and increase idle speed too much. Common sources of carbon buildup include the IAC valve, the EGR valve, and the throttle body.

  • Low Refrigerant in the AC System: If your AC system is low on refrigerant, it will make the compressor cycle on more frequently, increasing the load on your engine.

  • Failing AC Compressor: If your AC compressor is beginning to fail, this can also add to the surging problem.

  • Bad Belt: One often overlooked cause of a car surging with the AC on is actually a worn compressor belt. If the belt is stretched or worn smooth, it can slip during operation. This places significant strain on the engine and the AC system. Replacing the belt often eliminates the surge, and ensures better AC operation.

  • Bad AC Cycling Switch: The AC cycling switch controls the compressor cycling pattern. Over time, it can go bad. When this happens, it will place a significant load on the engine and can lead to surging.

  • Overfilled AC System: While low refrigerant can cause problems with your AC and engine surging, an overfilled system can cause the same problem. Refrigerant must be “just right” or you will experience a number of different problems.

What to expect:

Our professional mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to inspect the engine and the air conditioning system. The mechanic will then provide a detailed inspection report that includes the scope and cost of the necessary repairs.

How it's done:

The mechanic will inspect the AC system, as well as the vehicle’s engine. A test drive may be necessary if the surging only occurs when the car is in drive. The mechanic will check the car’s refrigerant level, as well as other possible causes, such as the AC cycling switch.

How important is this service?

If your engine is surging while the AC is on, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong. Driving without the air conditioner might solve it at least temporarily, but this is only a short-term fix. The actual problem must be addressed. One of our professional mechanics can inspect and diagnose your problem, and then provide a repair that ensures your engine runs smoothly and that your AC system works correctly.

Fast and easy service at your home or office

Backed by 12-month, 12.000-mile guarantee


Meet some of our expert BMW mechanics

Real customer reviews from BMW owners like you.

Excellent Rating

(167)

Rating Summary
159
3
0
1
4
159
3
0
1
4

Christopher

20 years of experience
307 reviews
Christopher
20 years of experience
BMW 328i xDrive L6-3.0L - Spark Plugs - Land O' Lakes, Florida
Punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Thomas

11 years of experience
38 reviews
Thomas
11 years of experience
BMW 328i xDrive L6-3.0L - Shock Absorber Replacement (Rear) - Media, Pennsylvania
This was my first time using Your Mechanic and Thomas showed up at the time scheduled. He completed the shock replacement very quickly. It was a great experience.

Chuck

10 years of experience
351 reviews
Chuck
10 years of experience
BMW 328i xDrive L4-2.0L Turbo - Pre-purchase Car Inspection - Dallas, Texas
I requested a Pre-purchase inspection. Chuck was very professional, prompt, and courteous. I felt confident about his experience and evaluation of the car that I am interested in purchasing. Very pleased!

Joe

20 years of experience
126 reviews
Joe
20 years of experience
BMW 328i xDrive L6-3.0L - Battery - Elmwood Park, Illinois
Joe is very knowledgeable.

Excellent Rating

(167)

Rating Summary
159
3
0
1
4
159
3
0
1
4
Number of BMW 328i xDrive services completed
1837+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1100+
experts on our platform

Recent articles & questions

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 BMW X6
The The X6 is a study in identity crises. While the sleek fastback styling and cozy interior suggest a sporty coupe, the hatchback and SUV platform speak to a weak attempt at imitating a wagon (without the roomy passenger capacity)....
Child Seat Safety Laws in Minnesota
In In the state of Minnesota, there are regulations in place that are designed to protect children when they are travelling in motor vehicles. These laws regulate the use and installation of child safety seats, and they must be obeyed...
P0674 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 4 Glow Plug Circuit
P0674 code means when the voltage from the glow plug circuit has a variance of 10 % over manufacturer specs due to a faulty plug, relay, or wiring.

My vehicle displays the SVS light only for 10 seconds after I have run the car for a few kms at the start of the day. Is it a concern?

Hi there. If the engine service soon light (service vehicle soon - SVS) comes on for about 10 seconds and then shuts off and does not appear the rest of the day, then this is normal. The condition is the...

I drive a 98 lexus gs 300 and it recently failed smog check bc the no levels are too high. How much would something like cost to repair

Hi. All electronics is completely dead on my 06 A4 Audi Avant. Nothing lights up when switching on ignition. I don’t think that it’s the battery as I did not leave any light or switch on. What could be the cause?

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (844) 997-3624 · hi@yourmechanic.com