AC went out paying an arm and a leg

Hey,
Been on here for a couple years and never said anything. I wanna give everyone a heads up about their a.c. compressors. To start out I'm a heavy machinery mechanic. I know my way around a wrench set. Left the doctor the other day and kicked on the a.c. had a squeal so I checked the belt all seemed good. Checked the clutch it was ok as well so I figured my compressor went out. I have a 09 trd dcsb with the 4.0. I looked into replacing it and decided I didn't have the time to deal with it so in the shop it went. I figure what's 1000 dollars compared to me having to rip half the truck apart to do it. The truck was there for about 3 hours and I get a call to come back they have to show me something so I head back to the dealership and into the shop. They had pulled the a.c. lines off and they were packed with metal. So we decided better be safe than sorry and replace all the a.c. components. I go home and when I get there I get a call they priced everything out and with labor it's gonna be 3560 dollars!!!! I almost passed out. So after I caught my breath I figure screw it. It comes with a warranty plus I had a bunch of recalls that needed attention so I tell them just do it. It's been 5 days and it should be done tomorrow. Just want to give a warning. Double check your lines if your compressor goes because all that work could be a waste of time when you blow the new one in a week. By all means if you think you can handle the entire a.c. system go for it but be prepared to cry a little. I opted for the shop to do it because I don't have the time and frankly I don't feel like doing it after wrenching all week. I hope this helps someone. Btw parts alone is almost 1000 for compressor, lines, evaporator, and condenser plus a charge. So about 2500 in labor

 

Jesus sorry man, I had the same thing happen to me but thankfully it was only the clutch hub. The squealing was the rubber on the clutch hub letting go. Definitely good advice about the compressor.. don't just slap one on there without checking the lines! From what i've read this is not a DIY job for a rookie.

 

I feel like I am going to go through the same thing soon, I feel you.

 

Man that’s insane. My compressor is making noise right now. Better replace the compressor before it grenades

 

What kind of noise does it make?

 

Bad bearing type sound but only when the clutch engages


Already have a new compressor in the garage.

 

Couldn't it just be the clutch bearing? You could buy one for 12 buck on ebay and have the old one pressed out/new one pressed in..

 

I wish it was but it only makes sound when the clutch is engaged. If it was the bearing in the pulley then it would constantly make sound.

I have almost 200k so it makes sense

 

Yeah man make sure you do it before it goes out or you will be sitting on the crying bench with me

 

Yeah it's definitely not a job for a rookie. Hell, it's not a job for someone who is decent.

 

I got lucky and my compressor shaft seal failed and the low pressure switch turned the system off, still cost me close to $700 for parts and freon. Labor was me and a Friend. Cold as ice again.

 

700 is still quite a bit for doing it yourself but congrats on not having a grenade

 

I replaced the Compressor and Condenser. I used a DENZO replacement compressor so it was a direct bolt up and I did not have to fool with any wiring issues.

 

That explains the price.

 

I'm just going to drop this here. I ordered one and had it in two days.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ac-clutch-failure-how-to-fix-blinking-light-squealing.448009/

 

I’m using a aftermarket UAC compressor that I picked up for 130 or so online.

I’ve done ac work before and I can’t say I’m a fan lol

 

10-4 I had three compressors on the counter at the parts house and the Denzo was the best one and the wiring was correct and it was already charged with the proper amount of compressor oil.

 

I agree I am a retired Heavy Equipment Mechanic and I have never liked A/C work. @Boatfloater89

 

My wife changed hers out on her 03 corolla by herself. She's a certified Youtube mechanic.
With enough patience, you can do anything DIY. Just be prepared to make mistakes and learn some things.

Good looking out though! I'll avoid the shop if mine ever craps out.

 

Once a compressor implodes and contaminates the rest of the system, it is a very expensive fix in any vehicle. Years ago, Honda had this issue with their 2004-2009 CRVs and I refused to buy one for solely for that reason. All the components have to be replaced to do it right (only the lines can be cleaned and reused) and you really should use all new OE stuff. Unfortunately, there is usually no warning before this happens. But maintaining the system (cleaning condenser, replace worn belts, makes sure fans are working properly) is your best defense.