1. Chris77*

    Chris77* Junior Member

    Joined:
    Aug 19, 2020
    82
    18
    0
    Location:
    USA
    Vehicle:
    2006 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    AC was a little weak this summer, and i decided to do a recharge kit. The kit didn't work out. Originally, I thought there was a blow out on condenser while trying to bring system up to pressure. AI swore this is the sole case and issue. I took to shop for inspection. Oil had blown out the escape valve of the compressor with no evidence of a leak on condenser. Shop originally wanted $2100 AC compressor kit installed. They want to replace compressor and condenser flush lines and charge it back up. The best price was a rebuilt compressor and new condenser installed 1500. I know you guys know how clunky AI is for auto repairs but its all I got so better than nothing.

    AI is doubling down on condenser and says to replace it only and thinks my compressor is still good, Suggest replace expansion valve. I don't really think the shop is doing anything wrong but its all about doing work that they can put their one year warranty on. I can't diy on this one i don't have the space or facilities nor the vacuumed equipment. So the repair has to be a one shot deal to keep cost reasonable. I read through the other comments and i see your mostly recommending used compressors at that which i found interesting. So how would you go about this repair? As always thanks for your time in advance.
     
  2. Tombukt2

    Tombukt2 Senior Member

    Joined:
    Nov 29, 2020
    13,762
    2,491
    0
    Location:
    Durham NC
    Vehicle:
    2009 Prius
    Model:
    Base
    No man I don't think so .2100 bux no way . Gauges and vac pump are cheap today 140 bux . Borrowing from a list member etc Something.!. Vac and gas up system on the cheap . Sight glass clearing up at compressor start up etc fat silver hose getting cold? What are numbers on the blue and red gauges. With the system on l o cool hI Fan and after 5 minutes of blowing cold air out . You note numbers on blue gauge maybe 37.. red gauge 95 degrees out it mite show 247or such ? You tell us . Weak what does this mean exactly? Why would a shop want to replace your condenser and all that stuff they think I got exploded ??? Evedince of is??? Usually if you take apart that fat hose and blow some air what comes out of the break. In the line ,? Metal shards??