Hello i tryed to run my a/c for the first time friday. got no cold air out of the vents, but got a grumbling sound from under the hood and a strange smell. There is plenty of noise coming from the compressor area, the clutch does not seem to be turning. iam thinking the worst and will need a compressor replacement. What do you think the dealer will charge me for this. i just bought the vehicle in january and with below zero temps i had no need to run the a/c and now that my 3,000 mile warranty is out (no extended warranty) i am stuck with this. the vehicle now has 53,000 miles on it. would i be better to try an a/c/ shop to check out?..


thanks Phil.............

 

It's not uncommon for the compressor to freeze up without use and what your hearing sounds like the clutch armature plate slipping. Not sure what kind of tool would be needed to get hold of the shaft to break it free.

 

You may be just low on freon- this will keep the compressor clutch from engaging. I wouldn't go to the dealer. Ask around and find a good shop in your area that does a/c work.

 

It wouldn't make any noise then.

 

Just got home from the dealer, they said it was the a/c compressor as i kind of figured. They initially quoted me a price of $1,000 to replace it. I said no way that i would shop around and get some prices. Then they say well let me see what i can do for you, an hour later they come back after talking with ford the price is now $500.00 if i will split it. So i say ill check around, and then they say they can do better, $400, for new compressor, new belt, oil change and tire rotation. still a kick in the *** but not as bad as origianlly quoted.

Phil

 

$400 doesn't sound all that bad. I found the Ford compressor online for $200 ($393 list price).

That would mean they are installing it, charging the system and doing the other work for just a couple hundred bucks.

Good deal in my opinion.

 

Amazing what a little negotiation can get you.