2011 Prius - A/C Compressor Dead

Someone that knows what they are doing could probably get one for a lot less from a wrecking yard. Underline "knows what they are doing".

 

Where are you located? I'm guessing you're out of warranty now, right?

 

Not that I've used this company, but they offer a new compressor for $655.

 

nice find, how much is the accumulator/dryer or install kit?

 

I've used refurbished units on other cars and your first dealer is right...they don't hold up. Get an OEM replacement. Some of the charges that seem extreme are because depending on the type of failure, you might have to also replace evap and/or the condenser coils too. That is, if the compressor failure caused an explosion into those coils. Sometimes the coils can be cleaned out - sometimes not. If contamination reaches your new compressor, it won't be long for this world. But to your concern, get a few quotes.

 

I would shy away from refurb too, but maybe new aftermarket?
My CRV's compressor failed after 4 years (part of a class action suit because many others had the same problem) and we replaced it with a brand new aftermarket compressor/dryer for under $350 in parts (labor was free from bro in-laws shop). That aftermarket compressor has been perfect for 7 years now...

 

$35

 

Did you buy the car used?

 

I just had this happen on my 2012 Prius while traveling in Wyoming. The dealer I found (a 2.5 hr drive) quoted $1000-$2000, for ac compressor and other parts if metal fragments went in system. Not happy as this is at 45000 miles.

 

Start a new fresh post and you may get more help than hijacking an existing post. We would like to see the diagnostic codes the car threw (dashboard check engine lights log a Diagnostic Test Code the dealer has them) so we can see exactly what is wrong.

Very rare incident. If metal fragments in system that implies catastrophic failure which at first glance tells me there was some damage to the front condenser. Is the car used?Is the car a salvage title? And lastly is the car missing the bottom plastic cover that prevents road debris from bouncing up and striking the front condenser. The front condenser is in front of the radiator and exposed behind the grill. If you look through the grill the metal box you see is the AC condenser. There have been some reports of rocks getting through the nose grill itself and striking the condenser puncturing it and then the freon leaks out and totals the compressor.

Your not to far out of the 3-36K mile warranty mileage wise. You may contact Toyota for some good will participation on the total cost of the repair. That happens quite frequently.

 

And if it was a punctured condenser coil, consider this mod. I've been very happy with the protection it has provided so far:

 

Actually I thought about your thread but couldn't remember your name as you had a similar experience iirc.

Excellent work. Looks incredible like there's a turbo in there.

 

Thanks edthefox5 - here's my original thread on the mod:
Grillcraft installation - protection from stones | PriusChat

 

Thanks for the site. Alas no G2. I would buy it if it did. Huge improvement on the looks. Highly recommend for G3.
Does not take much of a rock at 70mph's to ding the condenser.

 

OP, did you hear a noise from your compressor before it went out? I'm hearing a noise and just curious if in hindsight you heard any warning signs.

 

My 2011 Prius just did same thing. They reccomend replacing compressor & condensor w/ parts & labor $3600! Ridiculous! I wonder if I need to get the dryer replaced too? They didn't say anything about it!

 

are you in a cool climate?