It is common knowledge through car clubs, parts suppliers and the mechanics providing repairs that the electronic climate control unit often fails completely or becomes intermittent in operation. When it fails there is no controls or chance of changing functions. This allows the condition to exist that the vehicle operator can not select the windshield defroster function and possibly impairing the drivers ability to view through the windshield. I have two cars of this build type and they both have this problem. The mechanics repair bills often amounts to an excess of $400 per repair. Here is a quote from a reputable parts source, www.bavauto.com website: This is the digital climate control computer. These are a common failure item on all 1996-1999 3 series. When these fail, the lcd screen will go dim/blank (usually iintermittently and eventually permanently) and the ventilation & air system will not function." Part number: 64 11 8 379 521 description: Climate control computer module - in-dash rice: $74.95.

- Chesapeake, VA, USA