I have a 98 Nav that has a noticeable leak in the A/C system. You can hear it when you charge the system. It had a slow leak last year, but would hold a charge for a month or two. My son hit a deer back in December and tore the front end up pretty bad. I suspect that's when the bad leak originated.

My mechanic said that it is a leaky hose assy. coming off the compressor that cost about $350 for the hose assy. Took it to an A/C specialist and they traced the leak to the compressor and dryer assy. They want about $450 for parts and $150 for labor.

They say that they can't check for further leaks until that is fixed because it is such a bad leak. So, I'm looking at $600 with no guarantees. Something tells me no matter which way I go I'm looking at more problems/leaks.

What level of difficulty is it to change the compressor and dryer? Are they hard to get to? Any special tools or skill sets? etc. Is it safe to go with remanufactured A/C parts?

Thanks

 

Just follow the oil on the AC hoses...it tells you where the system is leaking...if the system is that leaky then the "specialist" is pulling your lariat. There is a place here in Phoenix called ACkits.com and they will rebuild any automative AC hose and for a very reasonable price...usually around $25. I would try them. After the system integrity is restored, then maybe you can diagnose the compressor...my guess is there is nothing wrong with it.

This is BIG money maker for dishonest mechanics.

Good luck,

Milkman