E39 Air Conditioning

[mum528]

My 97 528i AC is cooling just fine, but when the AC compressor is on, I hear a fairly loud pinging noise that seems to subside at higher speeds.

[billB]

Originally posted by mum528@Dec 12 2004, 06:17 PM
My 97 528i AC is cooling just fine, but when the AC compressor is on, I hear a fairly loud pinging noise that seems to subside at higher speeds.

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Mum 528 Welcome to our forum

I would start the engine first, listen, do you hear the noise? Have someone turn the AC on, listen again, any noise changes? For worse or better?
Prime candidates:
A. Your belt tensioner idler pulley as that might just be a good candidate for the noise you described.
B. Another possibilty? Your compressor pulley bearing just went south. Not so sure if you can choose between rebuilding the comp. or replacing it. Anyone?

wish you the best of luck
billb

[Slvr e39]

My ac makes that noise too, and goes off when I turn the ac off. Solution: I dont use ac

[rverma]

Originally posted by mum528@Dec 12 2004, 11:17 AM
My 97 528i AC is cooling just fine, but when the AC compressor is on, I hear a fairly loud pinging noise that seems to subside at higher speeds.

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I bought my 97 528i used from a dealer. Before I bought the car, I noticed the same problem - a loud pinging sound from the A/C when I turned it on. I took the car to an independent mechanic. He told me it was the compressor. Went back to the dealer, told him I'd only buy the car if the A/C was fixed. They agreed and it turned out they replaced the compressor, the condensor fan resistor, and the receiving dryer. All in all, about $1400 in parts and labor (that luckily, I didn't have to pay for!)

[Beamer5]

I own a 98 528 Sport and have the same issue. I've been told that its my compressor and was quoted $950 by one guy and $1200 - $1400 by the dealer. I'm not in a hurry t get it fixed now, as its cold here in the South, but I'l need to get fix before the Houston heat rolls in.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Should I get it rebuilt, should I buy a rebuilt compressor, or just buy a new one. I'm open to any suggestions.

Thanks!

[mum528]

Originally posted by Beamer5@Dec 14 2004, 04:09 PM
I own a 98 528 Sport and have the same issue. I've been told that its my compressor and was quoted $950 by one guy and $1200 - $1400 by the dealer. I'm not in a hurry t get it fixed now, as its cold here in the South, but I'l need to get fix before the Houston heat rolls in.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Should I get it rebuilt, should I buy a rebuilt compressor, or just buy a new one. I'm open to any suggestions.

Thanks!

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I doubt if you can get it rebuilt and $950 sounds pretty good, but be sure you get a new filter/dryer unit if that is not included in the $950.