BMW X5 A/C Dead, Compressor Issues or Something Else?

Hey there! I've got some experience with BMWs as I had a similar issue with my 2005 BMW X3 (I've got moderate experience working on cars, mostly basic maintenance and troubleshooting). Funny enough, I faced almost the identical problem last summer. Initially thought it was the compressor too, but when I took it to my trusted mechanic, they diagnosed an undervoltage issue that was causing the A/C system to shut down as a protective measure. The repair cost me about 240 Euro, they had to fix some wiring issues and replace a voltage regulator. Before jumping to conclusions though, could you share: Are you getting any specific fault codes? Does the A/C fan run at all when you turn the system on? Have you noticed any other electrical issues like dim lights or slow starter? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same problem I had. BMWs from that era can be tricky with electrical gremlins, and the X5 shares quite a few components with my old X3.

I recently had the car serviced at 54030 KM, and my mechanic did mention there could be electrical issues popping up soon. Thanks for sharing your experience! The fault codes I'm getting are P0645 and P0533. The A/C fan isn't running at all when I switch it on, and now that you mention it, I have noticed my headlights seem a bit dimmer than usual, especially at idle. Also, sometimes there's a slight delay when starting the car in the morning. Sounds like your situation was pretty similar. I'm actually relieved it might be just an electrical issue rather than a full compressor replacement. I'll definitely get those voltage readings checked out before jumping to any expensive conclusions.

Hey again! Thanks for those details, that definitely rings some bells from my experience. Those exact fault codes (P0645 and P0533) showed up on my X3 too! And the symptoms you're describing are almost identical to what I dealt with, the dim headlights and delayed start were what eventually led my mechanic to check the electrical system in the first place. Just wanted to add, after my repair, I actually had a chat with the mechanic who explained that these BMW models have a pretty sensitive voltage monitoring system. If the voltage drops below a certain threshold, it'll shut down "non-essential" systems like the A/C to protect the engine's vital functions. Pretty smart, but super annoying when it happens! Quick tip though, if you're heading to the mechanic, ask them to check the ground connections too. Found out later that corroded ground points can cause similar symptoms, and it's a much cheaper fix if that turns out to be the issue. Would've saved me some cash if I'd known to ask about that first! Keep us posted on what you find out. Really interested to hear if it's the same issue I had. These BMWs sure like to keep us on our toes!

Thanks everyone for your helpful responses! I'll compose a reply to wrap this up: Thanks so much for all this information! It's incredibly helpful, especially knowing someone else dealt with almost the exact same issue. I've scheduled an appointment with my mechanic for next week and specifically asked them to check the voltage regulator, wiring, and ground connections first before looking at the compressor. You've honestly saved me a lot of worry, I was convinced I'd need to shell out for a new compressor. Really appreciate you sharing those details about the voltage monitoring system too. It makes total sense now why the A/C would shut down along with those other electrical symptoms. I'll definitely update once I get it checked out. These older BMWs certainly have their quirks, but at least we've got a great community to help figure them out! Thanks again for taking the time to help me troubleshoot this!