2002 Volkswagen Bora VW Bora - Air Conditioning problems

Air Conditioning problem
2002 Volkswagen Bora Two Wheel Drive Manual 88000 miles

Hi there,

I’m hoping you can help with an air conditioning issue I have recently had with me VW Bora.
I’ve noticed over the last couple of days when I start the car that there is a strange bubbling or flowing noise coming from the engine, which I didn’t really pay much attention to, as I’ve just bought the car and still getting used to its various noises etc.
I found last night that when I was driving, the car would make a chirping noise, and do a little shudder, almost as if it was cutting out.
I stopped at a garage to ask for directions and asked the guy if he knew what the noise could be – he asked if the air-con was on and said it was probably the compressor.
As soon as I turned the air-con off, the noise and the shuddering stopped, so I’m guessing he was right.

Any ideas what the problem could be?

Is this something that I could investigate and/or fix myself, or does it need to be looked at by a mechanic?

Thanks for your help.