If the car has low mileage such as 20K-30K, then I'd say replace only the clutch coil (aka magnetic clutch).

However, at 175K miles+, the AC compressor lives on borrowed time.

At this mileage ---> get a new compressor for the peace of mind and move on.

PS: Don't gamble with the old compressor, google "AC Black Death" and do some readings...

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1998 E39 528i 5sp MT
2006 E53 X5 3.0 6sp MT