BMW X1 A/C System Dead: Compressor Issues & Solutions

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars and had a similar issue with my 2007 BMW X3 last summer. The symptoms were exactly the same, A/C completely dead, no response. Turned out it was an undervoltage problem that was affecting the whole A/C system, including the compressor. Took it to my regular workshop and they diagnosed it with their diagnostic tool. The fix involved replacing some electrical components and recalibrating the system. Cost me about 240 Euro but it's been working perfectly since then. Before you dive into repairs though, could you share: Any other electrical issues you're noticing? Does your battery seem to be holding charge well? Are there any other warning lights on your dash? These details would help narrow down if you're dealing with the same problem I had. BMWs from that generation can be tricky with electrical gremlins, but they're solid cars once sorted.

Thanks for the detailed response! Mine has been properly maintained (last service about 3 months ago) at 193842 KM, and haven't noticed any other electrical problems. Battery seems fine, no warning lights except for the A/C error. Based on what you're describing, it does sound pretty similar to my situation. Was your repair shop able to give you the specific error code? Also curious if they had to recharge the A/C system after fixing the electrical components? Trying to get an idea of what I might be looking at cost-wise. Thanks again for the help, these older BMWs definitely keep us on our toes!

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your car. Yeah, reading your numbers and symptoms, it's even more similar to what I experienced than I initially thought. In my case, the error code was P0645 (A/C clutch control circuit), and yes, they did have to recharge the system after fixing the electrical components. The total job ended up including the recharge, replacing a relay, and some wiring work near the compressor that had degraded over time. Since your maintenance is up to date and you're not seeing other electrical issues, I'd bet you're dealing with the same thing. My repair shop actually told me it's pretty common on these X-series BMWs once they get up there in kilometers. For the cost breakdown: The electrical work was the bulk of it, then the recharge was additional. All in, including parts and labor, mine came to around 400 for everything. Might be different now though, prices have gone up a bit since last summer when I had mine done. Quick tip, while they're in there, have them check the condenser too. Mine was fine, but the tech mentioned it's a good idea to inspect it when they're already working on the system. Let me know how it goes! Always interested to hear if others run into the same fixes on these cars.

Thanks so much for all the extra details! That error code P0645 is super helpful, I'll definitely mention that when I take it in. Really good to know about the potential wiring issues near the compressor too, makes total sense given the age of these cars. 400 for the full fix including the recharge actually sounds pretty reasonable, I was worried it might be way more expensive. Smart tip about checking the condenser while they're at it, definitely going to ask about that. I'll schedule it in for next week and get it sorted before it gets any worse. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, it's exactly what I needed to know! I'll try to remember to post an update once it's fixed in case anyone else runs into the same problem with their X-series. Thanks again for all the help, this kind of specific knowledge about these cars is invaluable!