A/C Belt 5K980 - E34 530i/540i, E39 M5, E32 740iL, E31 840ci

The A/C drive belt runs air conditioner compressor and is driven from the crankshaft pulley on the M60 and S62 engines. It's very important not to neglect your drive belts as a failure will leave you stranded. They're easy to inspect during normal maintenance such as an oil change or refilling your washer tank. If there are cracks running across the ribs, sections missing, the edges are frayed, or the threads are visible on the belt surface, the belt should be replaced immediately.

If you can, inspect and test the A/C compressor pulley and tensioner before ordering your belt. Or plan to order these parts at the same time. These are made of plastic and shatter with age, causing potentially expansive/expensive damage to your engine, radiator, etc. They usually last longer than the belt but now is the best time to replace them.