BMW's have a low pressure switch and if you have a very small leak over time (ALL systems do) it will prevent the AC compressor from kicking in and possibly damaging that REAL EXPENSIVE compressor. You have R134 refrigerant (lucky you it's the cheap stuff, unlike R12) If you are at all a do it yourselfer, go down to the local auto parts store and get a AC charge kit (about 17.00 including 1 can refrigerant.) Follow the 2 lines coming off your compressor till you get to a fitting, The larger diameter hose is the LOW PRESSURE SIDE (the one you want) it should have a blue cap on the fitting. Unscrew the cap, screw the fill hose you just bought on the can of R134 attach the hose end to the fitting that you just took the blue cap off and screw down the valve on the charger all the way and then back it out all the way. Keep the can pointed UP so gas goes in and not liquid. Start up the car and turn on the AC. Shake the can every once in a while. After 5 minutes or so, the can will either be empty or partially full, depending on how low it was. Screw down the valve all the way again if any liquid is still in the can and disconnect the hose from the fitting and put the blue cap back on. You just saved yourself about 20-30 dollars even after buying the kit and all of your friends will want you to charge their systems also. If it stops again this year you have a larger leak and either tighten all fittings (a good idea anyway) or take it to a professional and help him make his mortgage payment for the month. If you add any more next year or so, add a 2 Oz. bottle of R134 oil to keep the compressor happy. Good luck
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