Nissan Repair: A/C, mazda truck, fuel gauge

Question
Hi Von,

My question is actually about a Mazda, but there are no experts in that category, so hopefully you'll be able to help out.

I am considerring buying a '96 Mazda truck. It seems to be in decent condition and the price is right. A few things, though, is that the A/C does not work. I live in Hawaii and have come to depend on this luxury. Roughly, about how much can I expect to pay to either fix it or replace it, if need be? Also, the gas Empty/Full gauge is broken. How much would this cost to fix? Finally, the "Ceck Engine" light is on. What could this indicate?

Hey, thanks!!!! I appreciate your time. Happy New Years,
Shaun

Answer
Shaun,

The Mazda truck is a good vehicle.  The airconditioner is something that can be as cheap as correcting a leak and a $100 fee to get the system charged or something like $500 to $1000 for parts if the system was left open and the parts needing to be replaced along with labor would include a compressor, receiver dryer, condenser or evaporator.  So, just giving you the broad range of what that could be.  The fuel gauge is either the sending unit in the gas tank or the gauge and that can be obtained at a wrecking yard for cheap.  Something like $25 bucks.  Go to Autozone or the like and have them read the code for free since they provide this service.  They like selling parts and if they tell you what is wrong with the vehicle they figure that they will sell you the respective part.  Also, after the part is replaced they will clear the code providing you bought the part from them.