2023-2024 BMW i5, i7 AC Drumming Noise TSB 64 01 24

Owners of 2023-2024 BMW i5 and i7 vehicles may notice an unusual rhythmic drumming noise emanating from the HVAC system when the air conditioning is actively operating. This specific issue is detailed in BMW Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 64 01 24, which identifies the root cause and outlines a forthcoming solution.

Symptoms of AC Drumming Noise

The primary symptom described in TSB 64 01 24 is a distinct "drumming noise" that becomes audible when the vehicle's air conditioning system is in use. This sound is not constant but rhythmic, suggesting a repetitive action within the AC's drainage mechanism. Owners might notice this sound particularly during humid conditions or after prolonged AC operation, as these conditions increase condensation.

Understanding the Cause

According to BMW, the drumming noise is directly attributed to water dripping into the condensation drain. This water then echoes via the condensate drain pipe, creating the audible drumming sound. The design of the drain pipe allows the impact of water droplets to resonate, similar to how a drum amplifies sound. This issue affects models including the G60 (5 Series Sedan BEV) and G70 (7 Series Sedan BEV) produced up to December 1, 2023.

Important Warnings for Owners

BMW has issued a critical warning regarding this issue. Owners and technicians are specifically advised:

"NOTE: DO NOT MODIFY the condensate drain pipe. This could allow water to collect upon the high voltage battery or back up into the HVAC box overflowing onto the vehicle floor."

This warning highlights the potential for serious damage if the drain pipe is improperly altered. Modifying the pipe could lead to water accumulation near sensitive electrical components like the high voltage battery, posing a significant safety risk, or causing water to leak into the vehicle's interior, potentially damaging carpets, electronics, and other components. It is crucial to adhere to this advisory and await the official repair from BMW.

The Planned Repair

BMW's planned correction for the drumming noise involves installing a ramp insert into the condensation drain plug. This ramp is designed to break up the water drops as they fall, thereby preventing the echoing effect within the condensate drain pipe and eliminating the drumming noise. A modified drain plug with this insert will be made available later in 2024.

It is important to note that service parts for this repair are not yet available. TSB 64 01 24 explicitly states that the bulletin will be updated once the service repair is ready. For vehicles produced as of December 2023, an assembly solution incorporating this fix has already been implemented, meaning newer production vehicles should not experience this specific BMW i5 AC drumming noise.

What Owners Should Do

If you own a 2023-2024 BMW i5 or i7 and are experiencing the described drumming noise from your AC system, you should contact your authorized BMW dealership. While the repair parts are not yet available, your dealer can document the concern and keep you informed about the availability of the modified drain plug and the official repair procedure. Do not attempt to modify the condensate drain pipe yourself, as this could lead to further issues as outlined in the important warning. The resolution for the BMW i5 AC drumming noise is forthcoming, and owners should await the official repair.

NHTSA Source Citation

This information is based on NHTSA Manufacturer Communication ID 10249030.