Failure to Fix Air Conditioning

I own a 2000 Saturn LS2. I have a good number of miles on it and don't expect to keep it for too many more years.

The air conditioning is not working. "Room temperature" air blows out when the a/c is on. I am reluctant to get it fixed.

However, my friend told me that there could be engine problems that result by failing to get the a/c fixed if the problem with the a/c implicates the compressor.

What is your advice? Thanks.