Im not to familiar with AC systems in cars never had to work on one. Unfortunately my 2003 Acura TL AC compressor is going out. I took it in to have it looked at, and they said the compressors bearing is going out. They are asking 1000.00 which I think is ridicules. I looked into how much a compressor cost found some from 120 (used) to around 350 (new). I was curious if anyone had any tips or things I should know when switching out the compressors. As well as how much does it usually cost to fill it up with freon at a repair shop.

 

I had the same issue, unfortunately I went the Al-cheapo way and bought a used compressor from a salvage yard for 100$. Labor (take out old comp., put new one in+ freon fill) was about 300$. Days later I find out that my AC stops working, bring it back to the shop defective leaking compressor. Junkyard gave me an exchange which also turned out to be leaking after I filled it again. I wasnt about to spend the 1000$ the dealer wanted to I just went to autozone and find out they carry the OEM DENSO compressor for about 400$. I went that route and have had no problems ever since.

 

compressors have rubber seals that dont like being exposed to air
and without their protective coat of special oil...forgetaboutit

DO replace the ac `receiver/dryer` part- it absorbs moisture and when lines are open or been left open- system left empty,,always reason to suspect its been doing its job and replacement is sound planning
All ac jobs with compressor I ever did= got one

get a rebuilt unit, should come with new orings for the fittings
USE the special a/c oring lube--special stuff!!

have an ac shop do a suction -leak test-vacuum test
that makes sure all the connections are good and removes all air and moisture from the system,,very important

then do the refill at home or find an acurazine buddy to help- in Regions link

price per 1 lb can at parts store 10 bucks,,need approx 2.4 or whatever it says on compressor and NO MORE!!
Shop price freon per lb of `recycled`- not even brand new!!,,50-100$!! per pound!
they get you on the cost~ 30 bucks to fill PLUS FREON is suddenly 200

 

new ac belt and new ac belt tensioner unit would be smart too

with access to a small compressor and a harbor freight tool 20$
you can do the vac down yourself,,total cost for install 50 bucks