Car mankes a screeching sound!

[IzzE46]

Ok, I have a 97 E39 528i, and when I start the A/C I get a screeching sound. Like a belt or something. What can it be? Please help, should I be conserned?

[SStan]

Yes you should be concerned.
Could be loose or worn AC belt. Could be the AC compressor clutch is bad or the AC compressor itself is locking up. Have it checked out and dont run the AC til its fixed.

[Gamite]

could be just a loose belt.

[IzzE46]

Anyone else?

[fcurran]

Check the pulleys around the belt-- the upper & lower which is an ac pulley

I had the same problem & then finally the pulley broke before I could replace it

they are plastic & when the start to crack or the bearings are going they make a noise

[IzzE46]

Ok, I found that the a/c is locking up. Does this mean it is bad? Will I need to replace the a/c compressor? Can I have it fixed?