1999 BMW 328 AC Noise

1999 BMW 328
72,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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THESICILIANSPECIAL
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
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.
Jul 12, 2008 at 1:10 AM
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AIRSOFTSOLDRECN9
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  • 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.
Jul 12, 2008 at 1:21 AM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 9,603 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.
Jul 12, 2008 at 7:04 AM
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