Snow Flake {compressor} Button - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

Mitch · 14th January 2001, 21:12

What's the best way to utilize the compressor button? I assume if you leave it on all the time, the automatic climate control will activate the compressor based on the temperature setting you input. This would seem to make sense as it has always been my understanding that the a/c compressor is a 'use it or loose it' item. Meaning that you should run it at least 5 to 10 minutes a week to keep the seals (or whatever they are) lubricated, you run the risk of premature failure.

Thanks in advance for your input.

1C00lVC · 14th January 2001, 21:19

keeping the AC on all the time is an overkill... it loads the engine and you'll waste gas..
Once a week for 5 min. will do it. Remember the AC will not go on under a certain temp. (15c?, not sure)..

Arie

P.S. as I am sitting here and writing this, and I look out the window, it is a beutifull day, and there she is, in the driveway, what a beauty...... I'm going driving.. see yah!..

lokhankin · 15th January 2001, 21:19

A/C can work at any temp.
Otherwise your windows can get really foggy in internal air circul. mode - regardless of temp. outside

rvacha · 15th January 2001, 21:43

Leaving the compressor on at all times is not overkill. The climate control is smart enough that it will not cause the compressor to work hard when the heater is on. I leave it on full time in both of my E39s and it really does help keep the fogging down better than any other cars I've owned. A/C load on a V8 is a drop in the bucket - you'll never know it is on!

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'00 E39 M5
'97 E39 540i six speed