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too many AC issues

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by markrj, Sep 2, 2015.

  1. markrj

    markrj Junior Member

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    Hi all. I bought my 2005 prius used 6 months ago, all the mechanics work fine except my AC which started going in June.

    Over 2 weeks it started blowing less, eventually nothing. Used the refrigerant (the correct one with no oil) and filled to around 33 every other day for a while and it would work great. Finally went to dealership 3 weeks ago, paid 140 and they replaced one valve (expansion valve? cannot remember) and filled it up and it worked for 1 week. They said a previous owner had dye put in and they saw the dye there. Brought it back when I thought it was starting to go again and they said they saw a small amount of dye leaking in the evaporator but it would last 2 months minimum (obviously didnt). I was quoted 1400 for evaporator replacement.

    I still hear the compressor turn on and fan works fine. I am in North Carolina in Triangle area if anyone knows a good place, I am at a loss for what to do. Next plan of action?
     
  2. markrj

    markrj Junior Member

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    also wanted to say since I keep my AC off all the time now, gas mileage has gone from around 36/38 up to 46 regularly around town, same driving habits.
     
    nerfer likes this.
  3. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    If you want AC, replace the compressor. $1400 is a lot to spend on a 2005. As the car ages, the hv battery and the transaxle can become an expensive problem.
     
  4. nerfer

    nerfer A young senior member

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    You'd probably get most or all of that back in the resale price, as trying to sell a car in NC without A/C would cause a big price hit.
    HV battery and transaxle (sic) last the life of the car in most cases. Many people have gone 200,000 miles or more on original batteries. I haven't been specifically following it, but haven't heard of anybody replacing the planetary gear system.
     
    #4 nerfer, Sep 2, 2015
    Last edited: Sep 2, 2015
  5. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    goldprius05 in another thread got a compressor from discountacparts for $450.