2001 Continental - A/C issues?

ZACK2004

Have 2001 Lincoln Continental 96,000 miles has been running fine
Rattling noise when idling and battery light came on. then no heat or power steering
Knew it had blown a belt and had burning smell that went away
Garage says serpentine belt snapped but should also get new AC compressor
AC has been perfect for years, never had to do anything
Why wouldn't just replacing the belt be the solution ?
Thanks

PF_Flyer

I think I'd replace the belt and see how the AC goes. The compressor will still be there to be replaced IF there's a problem with it. Did the garage give you a reason they thought the compressor should be replaced?

ZACK2004

All that I did every summer is simply turn the AC on and never had the slightest problem. I sat idling with the defroster and heat on (just fine) when I heard the noise and smelled some burning briefly ... then had no heat and no steering. Garage asked if I had cooling and said they thought compressor had a leak and would be best to replace it. My suggestion was the same as yours but told them to do what they thought best. Working on it
today, so we'll see. I'm at a disadvantage as I know nothing, but was just guessing with my suggestion. Thank you for your reply !!