^You can fix it for much cheaper than that if you do the work yourself. If you are unable, or it's not worth it to you though, I understand that as well. I find that the older I get the more I'd rather someone else turn the wrenches... unfortunately that is seldom an option for me with how expensive labor is.

I was under the impression, and someone else who has experienced this can chime in (I think Trader had, or has this issue with his fan), that the compressor will still function provided the charge is where it is supposed to be. The only reason your compressor would not engage is if the pressure switch is tripped or the clutch failed I believe.

__________________
2005 X5 4.4i Build 04/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, Pano, Sport (Purchased 06/14 w/ 109,000 miles) (Sold 8/15 w/121,000 miles)

2006 X5 4.8is Build 11/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, DSP, Pano, Running Boards, OEM Tow Hitch, Cold Weather Pckg (Purchased 08/15 w/ 90,500 miles)

2010 X5 35d Build 02/10
Nav, HiFi, 6 DVD, Sports Pckg, Cold Weather Pckg, HUD, CAS, Running Boards, Leather Dash, PDC, Pano (Purchased 03/17 w/ 136,120 miles)