E53 Expensive AirCon fault

[Raward]

Good Evening
I took my 2003 X5 to the indi menders and they have quoted £550 to supply and fit my buggered aircon compressor and clutch.
That's a lot of money for a few days of the year when we need to use aircon........I think you'll all agree.
Can any of you suggest what I should do?
Is £550 a pisstake?
Anyone know where I can source these parts at a reasonable price, after all its a 10 year old car!
Thanks
Raward

[X5Sport]

The problem is that unless the system is run regularly (at least once a month) the seals dry out due to the fluid also being a lubricant and that's that.  To be honest I never turn mine off.  The systems can lose up to 15% gas volume per year normally so need checking every 5 years or so, more often if not used.  It's called 'Climate Control' for a reason.  It's not just a/c and needs using.

Citroen were well known for it a few years back, and that price is about what I would expect from an Indy, BMW will probably want over £1k.

Richard

[shadrack]

that will be right as air con compressor will be expensive and they can be a pita to fit

[Denis O]

See what someone like Quarry Motors will charge for a 2nd hand compressor and then either fit yourself or have your indy fit it.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BMW-X5-SE-D-A ... 53f491c4a8