E46 a/c issues - Dorkiphus.net

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Old 05-17-2018, 08:32 PM
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Default E46 a/c issues

So the a/c is out on my 2004 325. I'm thinking the compressor is dead as it makes a bad noise when it's on (see video). I had seen oil (freon) on the floor of the garage for some time.

I'm debating whether putting some freon in it is worth it or a waste of money as a test. Can you tell from the sound if the compressor is dead or malfunctioning.

https://youtu.be/AspyXr0jaX8
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Old 05-17-2018, 08:37 PM
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Try another video from the engine compartment. Or better yet, pop off the belt and spin (or try) the compressor by hand.
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Old 05-17-2018, 09:50 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by cmartin View Post
Try another video from the engine compartment. Or better yet, pop off the belt and spin (or try) the compressor by hand.
Will do this weekend.
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Old 05-17-2018, 11:55 PM
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Steve - Been there and done that a few years ago. Mine made noise and seen to start seizing intermittently - until it finally seized for good. This became obvious when the smoke started coming out of the hood. Replaced the compressor and the accumulator and of course the refrigerant - actually had a shop do it. The majority of the cost is parts and charging and in-charging the system. The labor was not bad because it is all right there.
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Old 05-17-2018, 11:56 PM
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Listen to your video - you already know the answer.
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Old 05-18-2018, 10:34 AM
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Sounds like you need a new compressor. Changing the compressor ($220) means changing the accumulator/dryer ($40) as well, and then recharging with two cans of R134a ($15).

Not sure if it fits your E46, but the best deal I found was this compressor from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Denso-471-1119-A-C-Compressor/dp/B004SG5566/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1526654034&sr= 1-1.
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Old 07-20-2018, 07:47 AM
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This actually isn't such a bad job. Took about 3 hours last night. Hardest part was pulling off the sway bar (awd model) and then chasing the threads in the dryer which I munged up a bit. Now, off to recharge it.

Bentley is a huge help but I hate how theres one step....Remove X see section 310. And there's 5 more steps in section 310.

Who knew I'd need to pull out the headlight?
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