BMW 1 Series AC Failure: Compressor Warning Signs & Fixes

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars and faced a similar issue with my 2019 BMW 3 Series diesel last summer. The symptoms were exactly the same as yours, AC completely dead, warning light, the works. Took it to my trusted workshop and turns out the AC control unit was completely fried. I initially thought it was the compressor too, but the diagnostic showed otherwise. The repair set me back about 980 Euro, including parts and labor. They had to replace the entire control module, but it's been working perfectly since then. Before I can share more specific advice, could you tell me the exact engine variant of your 1 Series and whether you're getting any specific error codes? Also, have you noticed any electrical issues with other systems in the car? This info would help me understand if you're dealing with the same problem I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My 1 Series has 81318 KM on the clock and just had its service last month. I'm getting error code P0645 which seems to point to the AC compressor circuit. Haven't noticed any other electrical issues so far, everything else works fine. The car runs great otherwise, it's just this AC problem that's driving me crazy in this weather. Actually thinking of getting it checked at the workshop this week. Did your repair come with any warranty? Just wondering if I should prepare for a similar repair cost.

Hey again! Thanks for providing those details about your 1 Series. You know, when I had my 3 Series fixed, the repair did come with a 2-year warranty on parts and labor, which was pretty reassuring. Looking at your error code P0645, that's actually different from what I experienced. While my issue was the control unit, your error code specifically points to the AC compressor circuit. Mind you, this doesn't always mean the compressor itself is bad, could be the wiring or the relay too. When my car was in the shop, they initially suspected the compressor too, but doing a full diagnostic saved me from unnecessarily replacing it. In your case, since you're getting that specific error code and considering your mileage, I'd say get it checked ASAP. Better to catch these things early, I learned that the hard way! Based on what I went through, I'd suggest asking the workshop to thoroughly check the electrical connections and relay before jumping to replace the compressor. My repair was around 980, but if it turns out to be just a relay or wiring issue, you might get away with a much smaller bill. Let me know what the workshop says, curious to know if it's similar to what I experienced with my 3 Series!

Thanks so much for all that detailed info! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. You've actually made me feel a bit more optimistic, I was dreading a complete compressor replacement, but you're right about checking the electrics first. I've just booked it in for tomorrow morning actually. The workshop said they'll do a full diagnostic first before touching anything, which sounds like the right approach after hearing your story. I'll definitely ask them to check the relay and wiring thoroughly before jumping to any conclusions. Good to know about the warranty too, I'll make sure to ask about that when I'm there. I'll keep you posted on what they find. Really hoping it turns out to be something simple like a relay! Can't thank you enough for helping me understand what I might be dealing with here.