1999 BMW 328 AC Noise

THESICILIANSPECIAL

MEMBER
1999 BMW 328
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
72,000 MILES

My 328I has a clapping sound that can be heard when the AC has been selected on. The noise increases and decreases with engine speed and comes and goes @ different RPM and engine temperatures. When the clapping is heard selecting the AC switch off immediately stops the sound.

FYI: The sound can be described as a playing card in the spokes of a bicycle.

2 Replies

AIRSOFTSOLDRECN9

MEMBER
348 POSTS

Try just using the blower (don't let the compressor kick on). May be a leaf or some foreign material in the way. If it truely only happens when the compressor is engaged then most likely you have a restriction in the expansion valve/orifice tube.

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Saturday, July 12th, 2008 AT 1:21 AM

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

Noises are often very difficult to diagnose from cyberspace. The issue at hand is possibly from the A/C compressor and/or from the drive unit. Is the noise confined to the underhood area or does it seem to come from somewhere else in the car? When did this noise start? Is the A/C blowing cold air? Does it seem to be working normally other than the noise? Was the system serviced in the past? History can sometimes aid the diagnosis.

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Saturday, July 12th, 2008 AT 7:04 AM