Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: A/C compressor?, critical system components, r 134a

Question
Hi. I just bought a 97 honda civic from a dealership. After I bought it I realized the air conditioner didn't work. It makes a squeaky sound while its on, and when I turn it on my idle drops. The other day I was driving and when you hit the defrost button, it automatically turns the a/c on, and I didn't notice. When I stopped I noticed that my car was smoking under the hood. I turned the a/c off and it quit smoking. I called an a/c place and they said it was probably my compressor and that it was going to be 1300 dollars. Yikes! Does that sound right to you? Is there any way I could do it myself? What else could it be? Thanks.

Answer
Tyler,

Let me start out positive -- when you hit 'Defrost', the system is designed to come on, so you're good there. However, the compressor does seem to be seized. You see, when the A/C is off, the compressor clutch freewheels, and when it is turned on, it's electro-magnetically pulled in to engage. The reason for the smoke is simple: the compressor refuses to turn at the speed of the engine, so the belt takes the brunt of it.

As to whether you could do it yourself, well, the real issue is handling refrigerant and experience. The actual steps to replacing a compressor is somewhat easy, but the recovery, evacuate and recharge is the problem. It's easier if a certified shop handles the whole job, but you could get the R-134a recovered, then take the car and put the compressor on (a receiver/drier is highly suggested to be replaced), and depending on the condition of the system, the orifice tube (CCOT) or expansion valve. Then, you could bring it back for the evacuate and recharge part. However, not a lot of shops will mess with that... and I wouldn't suggest it personally. As you can see, although replacing parts is easy, for the most part, knowing if there is metal in the system, and taking the steps to extract it or replace critical system components takes an experienced eye.

Lastly, A/C repair prices wildly fluctuate -- you could call around to reputable repair shops and you might get a lower price (or even higher). However, in my experience, when it comes to A/C, a low price usually means an incomplete repair. The mantra of A/C pros: Pay me now... or pay me later. One side note: I would defintely go up the ladder at the dealer you bought this car from. Even though the sign probably said As-Is, it isn't gonna hurt to pursue this avenue. Calmly state your issue, and see how they handle it. You might be surprised. If that person doesn't listen, then make some noise. That said, it's always a good idea to have used cars checked out by qualified mechanics familiar with the vehicle in question, to hopefully avoid situations like this. Good luck to you!