Climate Control Swap

[Richpo]

Has anyone ever swapped the regular climate control unit to the digital display one?

If so was it just a plug and play thing?

[Naviintu]

I joined this website to ask the same question! Have you found the answer?

[Haring]

I remember it being asked years ago. Think there are a bunch of sensors/hidden stuff that needs to be replaced. I can't remember exactly. But it's not as easy as removing manual dials and swapping for the climate control one.

[Naviintu]

That does make sense. I was hoping, as my dials seem to pop off of the control rods frequently. Maybe someday I'll pay for the upgrade.

[Julien]

There is a DIY out there where someone tried it. Basically you need panel and a few sensors. That said he couldn't get it to work as the central module wasn't jiving with the swap. Maybe someone has figured a way to code it by now though.

[Saponetta]

Yoid probably have to clone a body module for a car that did have the option to your car along with the hardeware swap.

[bryanintowson]

This issue will be the same if you try to add foglights. The BCM knows the cars VIN and knows what it was equipped with at the factory. You will have to reprogram the BCU or clone another better equipped car.

[smark]

Lots of sensors, different wiring harnesses, the vehicle computer software. You probably need to get hold of a Fiat 500 service manual. To understand what parts your going to need, to assemble it. Lot of those parts you can get from a salvage vehicle. I really doubt it plug and play.

[map]

This may be the thread you spoke of. The owner explains, "Update on what's going on with the ac swap. So turns out everything is plug and play!"

https://www.fiat500owners.com/forum/26-fiat-500-diy-section/39170-manual-ac-control-auto-ac-swap.html

Spoiler Alert! The owner dropped offline shortly afterwards. Serving 5 years for stealing an Abarth BCM, perhaps?