Mitsubishi Repair: air condition and release locks, release latch, auto part stores

Question
I have a 98 mits mirage.....was told my air conditioner was empty...auto shop will charge $124.00 to fix.  Can you purchase this at auto stores and put in yourself ?  if so can this cause any problems? thanks

also trunk release no longer works...can i fix this myself if so how?

Answer
Cher,
Your A/C system most likely has a leak in it.  Auto part stores do sell cans of refrigerant and oil to recharge your system, but if you'd not familar with the proper amount of oil and refrigerant to add, you could end up damaging your A/C compressor.  My advise would be to have a shop that specializes in A/C repairs find where your leak is.  Most of the time, the leak is from the condensor unit in front of the car.  Don't have it recharged until a leak detection is performed.

The trunk release latch can be tricky.  It may be a bad cable or the latch itself that is the problem.  But if you really want to attempt to fix it yourself, I'd recommend getting a service manual for your car to help guide you in any take-apart and re-assembly procedures.
Good luck!