My '05 3's a/c compressor seized up, at speed, and the ensueing sparks nearly ignited the plastic below. New compressor installed, and I removed the fairing to mitigate the fire hazard. Expedites oil and filter changes, and doesn't appear to have had much effect on my mileage, wind noise, or appearance. I'm no authority, but two years and many miles later, it seems the advantages outweigh any obvious detriments.
