I recently picked up an E61, and it seems that while my front vents will blow AC ( and need to be recharged ), the rear vents, at the back of the center console, are just blowing out straight up hot air. Is there a baffle that impacts this? It's almost like its drawing in hot air from the outside and blowing it in.

 

Have you verified that the temperature selection dial in the rear vents is connected? You have to be careful, but the rear vents do just pop out and you can ensure the cable is plugged in. I believe the airbox has a baffle on the bottom that sets air temp. I know my dial works but the rear vents I do find in general to be more difficult to control, especially fan speed.

 

Hm, good point. I'll check!

 

I looked at TIS and it looks like you have to first remove the panel under the rear vents. From my experience it sucks to remove that panel. I mangled my clips in the process. Good luck.

 

It worked just fine driving this evening - everything blew ice cold.

Sometimes its 62*F - othertimes it seems lukewarm ( even the front vents ). Checked AC and it was charged so... maybe compressor switch is acting up

 

Check your heater control valve before you do anything. Get the car up to operating temp. Tune on the a/c and check the hoses going out to car to see if they are warm/hot if so your valve needs to be replaced. Also the rear blend doors could be getting stuck.