First post to this NG.  My '99 328i with 42K miles has finally had its first
hick-up.  Last week upon a 30 mile trip in moderate heat I had my AC On.  AC
in this car was perfect.  Upon exiting the freeway and stopping at the first
light, my engine shut off and CEL came on.  When I tried to start it again,
it did, but with some nasty noises from the engine bay and then promptly
shut down again.  I opened the hood and smelt something burning.  Upon
poking around, I found the clutch area of the AC compressor is the area that
the burning smell was originating.  When I shut down the AC and started the
car again, it ran fine.  A couple days later I turned the AC switch on, and
the engine ran normally, but I wasn't brave enough to let it run longer and
see if it still cools, because someone told me I can wipe out the belt if
the AC Comp clutch seizes.
My friends and a mechanic I spoke to thinks my AC compressor is history.
The dealer quoted (pre inspection) $1700 for a rebuilt AC compressor, belt,
receiver and dryer.  Ouch.  To diagnose it correctly, they want $110.  Ouch.
And I don't see myself doing the job.
Anyone have any ideas on what this could be?  Another mechanic told me that
in 7 years of working on bimmers, he hadn't seen a busted AC compressor.  I
live in the Detroit/Windsor area.  If anyone can recommend any reliable
German car shops, I would appreciate it as well.  Thanks.