e46 Air Conditioning Problem - Not blowing cold air

[ryanarroyo]

I have a 2001 325ci. The AC system is not blowing cold air and is making a hissing or sucking sound when first turned on.

-I just recharged refrigerant. The low side pressure is 30psi
-The outside air temp gauge seems to be working properly
-The compressor is engaging

Anyone have any ideas on what the culprit could be?

Thanks!

[ryanarroyo]

So the issue was with the refrigerant levels. I attempted to use a DIY kit, but apparently I was not getting enough refrigerant into the system. Take that into account when using those kits. (I think it had something to do with the cheesy valve and hose that came with the kit)

BTW..the issues I outlined above are the main things that can go wrong. Most likely the culprit is one of those.

[nathancarter]

Thanks for the follow-up.

It's rare that anyone has much success using the DIY A/C recharge kits on the E46. The proper method is to have a professional evacuate the system, then refill it with the right amount of refrigerant and oil. The average home mechanic does not have the right equipment to do this.

I'll take a crack at almost anything myself, but A/C is one of the few things I won't mess with.

[ryanarroyo]

Well, I found out that the culprit is actually a leaky compressor...which is draining the system of refrigerant. I will need to replace the compressor. However, I just received a quote for 1k to do this, which is way to much...so I want to try and tackle this job myself.

How difficult is this job? Has anyone done this? I would consider myself a semi-skilled mechanic...

[danewilson77]

I just picked up a used compressor with 6 month warranty from http://www.bmrparts.com/ for $125.00 for a engine swap were doing on a 528i...



This is a direct link to the one for your car....

http://www.data.bmrparts.com/bmwpart...85618572U.html

Most of our used BMW parts are priced from 52% to 85% off the current BMW list price -- and all Bavarian parts are cleaned, tested, and Guaranteed. Please call us for the specific BMW interchange, the part's exact condition, available warranties, and package discounts at (800)269-0863.

No price available (but they have one in stock) but like I said....pick one up for $125.00 is better than the $600.00 for a new one (unless you have money to burn). Give them a call and ask for George. If you have a leaky compressor...the charge is probably gone so just swap out the compressor, then take it in and have done what Nathan said. Probably get away with about a $300.00 bill total....idk.

Good luck

[02325]

replaceing the comperessor is nothing. the problem relies on pulling a vac to remove the air and moisture form the system. charging a/c without pulling a vac will cause the pump to cavitate and the a/c not to cool properly.

[dak1b]

get frezone..bets stuff out

[ryanarroyo]

Originally Posted by 02325

replaceing the comperessor is nothing. the problem relies on pulling a vac to remove the air and moisture form the system. charging a/c without pulling a vac will cause the pump to cavitate and the a/c not to cool properly.

Good point. I think I will need to use an alcohol based A/C flush. Can you buy this at a normal parts store?

[fermunky]

Originally Posted by ryanarroyo

Good point. I think I will need to use an alcohol based A/C flush. Can you buy this at a normal parts store?

I've never even heard of this, but I would simply swap the compressor, ensuring no debris gets in, and then have a shop properly evac/recharge.

[nathancarter]

You might need a new receiver/dryer. I don't remember the exact criteria that necessitate replacing it... maybe if the system has been open to the environment for a long time?

From my experience, a shop often won't replace major A/C components without also replacing the receiver/dryer, but I've never really understood exactly why.

[Chad44]

I believe the manuals say that if the system is open to the air for like 12 hours you need to replace the receiver/dryer... I'll check my AllData.