Simply put, a bit of an A/C question.

[myfriendsrjealous]

Yeah, I have a 1988 325is. Well, when I hit the a/c switch, all I hear is just hissing. But the rpm kicks up a little higher, as if the compressor was kicking in. It doesn't blow cold air however. I was thinking, it might just need a good recharging. I took it to a German Auto place, and just asked what was wrong. The mechanic took a look under the hood (for free though, just a quick glance, making me think he was gonna get me real bad) and said that my compressor is shot to hell and that my car leaks freeon. Compressors for my car are 1k plus, so, I was just wondering if he is really right, or hes just b/sing the crap out of me.

--Pete

[polar]

i would take it to a dealer and get them to assess the car. it might cost you but at least you can then be sure whats wrong, even if you choose to not get it fixed there.

it's always a good idea to develope a good relationship with a good mechanic so that you're not always guessing whether or not they are telling the truth.

[BMWTECH]

From the sounds of it your compressor is bad. The clutch part of it is bad. You obviously have a little freon in your system since the compressor is engaging. Look for an oily resdue on the lines coming from the compressor for the outside part of the system. The oily residue is buildup and means that part of the line is leaking. If there is a leak and the lines look good, than most likely it is the expansion valve or the evaporator. The expansion valve is no biggie. The evaporator requires a little bit more work though.