AC broke, but *MAGIC* and now it's fine

Well, the same service writer who's been yanking me around called me instead of the manager, but at least I managed to get a rental of some sort out of him so I can drop my truck off and leave it until they can find the leak/problem. I won't be taking it in until Monday morning, so stay tuned for further updates. This is the same service writer who wouldn't do the transmission TSB because my VIN wasn't listed (he thinks it starts at the first number, not 4-8). He's even younger than I am, and neither of us could be mistaken for a mechanic anyway, so I'm trying to play nice. But getting frustrated...

 

OK, so I took my 2016 Tacoma in to the dealer, with an AC problem. Got a call advising that the system had a leak, and that the high-side seal was leaking and needed replacing (however the seal is on back-order) Price of the seal $6.99 Canadian - sounded like a great resolve - However, it is a 3 hour job to replace the seal, plus a $200 refill of the system. Total $700 to replace a $7 part!!!!
Is this the same seal that you guys are taking about that is a constant problem? And, is there a cheaper way?
Sounds like I've inherited a never ending problem?
Anyone got a cheaper resolve?

 

yes it’s the same seal, if you open your engine bay and look through the top portion of the grill you’ll see a silver line with a black cap and the letter H. If the connection right there is anything like mine it’ll be covered in crud which is the compressor oil leaking out.


Unfortunately the dealer service is the proper way to fix the problem unless you know someone with a 1234YF machine that can help you out, or if there’s a small shop in your area with a better labour rate.

 

Are we talking about a 2006 or a 2016? If it’s a second gen go to any smaller shop that has a R134a machine and you’ll probably get a better price.

 

I’d like to send out massive props to this legend @Dsmitc90. I took the truck back to the dealership on Monday morning and the service writer immediately confirmed the sound as the expansion valve. Fast forward to today, when he calls me again to update me that they found the leak and it was in fact the evaporation core.