Without gas pressure the compressor doesn't run it's a safety feature of all modern A/C systems. You could have saved the cost, especially as the current ones appear lower quality than the OE ones.
I have had an annoying "groaning" noise at 1500 RPM from the AC compressor on my E61 535d for literally years and I think this video will give me the inspiration to finally replace the compressor and condenser/dryer. I've already replaced the AC clutch bearing and all the idler pulleys on the serpentine belt and I replaced the alternator due to charging issues, and the noise only happens when AC is switched on so I'm pretty sure it's the compressor. The noise had gone away until recently when I realised on a hot day that the AC wasn't working. So I topped up the gas with the "AC Pro" system from Halfords and got the AC cold again but the noise came back. Another indication that this is a compressor problem. Really enjoyed the collaboration between you guys and I hope we'll see a bit more of that in future. Thanks both.
Another great video - thank you! I also have an old E61 535d. Does anyone know where to get a maintenance manual for the 535d with the N57 engine please? The Haynes and Bentley manuals for the E60/E61 exclude the N57 variant for some reason. Thanks for any help.
Neil, the new turbo innards that you fitted to the e61.... did that work out ok with no issues? Mine is leaking with some impeller play so thinking of doing it.
The A/C compressor has just let go on my wife’s E91 330i….joy. Last year it was the condenser and high pressure line and this year the bloody compressor just as it gets warm.
As regards the amount of PAG oil, your supposed to weigh what comes out of the old one and add 25/30g of new oil and fully drain the new compressor then added what is required.
Why are you repairing the air conditioning on your 140000 mile BMW well my 1997 Toyota Hilux air conditioning is working fine although l have only owned for five yearsand l am pretty sure ir still has its original compressor and probably the rest of the air conditioning and l have seen reviews on many 1990s and early 2000s Toyotas and the air conditioning works well in is the fact that Toyotas are much better engineered than new BMWs and my Hilux has done 437000 kilometres and is still running fine and much more reliable than any newer BMW
