P/n 1 383 204

[mostwired]

There's a part number 1 383 204 dangling by a wire from the front underneath of my '96 318i. It's a yellow connector with a black prong sticking out. Could somebody please look up what this P/N is? I hope it's not an airbag sensor

[mostwired]

Sorry - nevermind - found it!
It's an External Air Temperature Sensor - for on board computer outside air temperature gauge. I wonder if that affects A/C operation? ('cause it has been working very flaky recently - when idling, the A/C would practically blow hot air out - but is back to normal as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed in).

[drz]

That sensor has no effect on the air conditioning. Where are you located? If you are in a region where it is summer right now, then it seems to me that your engine cooling system is not working properly. If you are sitting at idle, less air flows through the radiator cooling fins -- much less than if you are in motion. With an engine that is too warm, you won't get cold air from the A/C vents. Check that your electric cooling fan is turning on when your air conditioning is running.

[mostwired]

Hi DRZ,

I'm in FL - so it's pretty hot here. This happens usually when its 90 or above outside. Where is the "electric cooling fan"? The 318i doesn't have a radiator fan. As for the blower motor, it works great - just pumps hot air when the car is idling...