|
Before you condemn the compressor, have someone who really knows what they're doing evacuate and recharge the A/C system. If it was filled without the proper amount of oil, that can cause problems. For me, I'd prefer a shop that has one of the newer Snap-on A/C service machines; they do everything automatically, and remove the very significant chance for human error. These cars need a very precise amount of Freon. Technically they can be charged with a set of compound gauges, a scale for the tank, and a canister for the oil, but you really need to know what you're doing to get that right. Any idiot can do it right with one of the newer machines. There are other brands of automatic A/C machines out there as well, but these are probably the best. (Cost close to $7k and go up to almost double that for the machines that handle hybrids).
Also, that A/C belt is totally shot, so replace that, and the idler pulley on that belt while you're at it. That pulley could also be your culprit for a rattling sound. Replacing the A/C Belt is not too hard, but adjustment for the belt tension is a royal PITA.
Some folks have used a Dremel to notch the tail end of the adjustment bolt so it can be turned from above like a screw, but otherwise, you'll need the full spectrum of 1/4 socket tools to get to the adjuster from below. There's a crossmember right in the way, so a long extension with a wobble end, coupled to a 3" extension, coupled to the bit driver makes it work, with a few curses thrown in. Once the tools are in the general area, you can no longer see the bolt, so it's all by feel.
Snap on A/C machine looks like this. This is a brand new model, but their fully automatic machines have been around for about 8 years or so.:
__________________
2014 BMW 328i Xdrive
2011 BMW 335i M-Sport
2008 BMW X5 4.8i Sport
2000 BMW 528i 5sp
|