'03 A/C leak, compressor?

[sylph978]

I have an '03 VUE (72K) that has just been to the shop for A/C problems (not getting cool if ambient temp is high).
I had the system recharged with dye additive and it seems that the leak is from the compressor (dye pretty heavy under the belt/under alternator?). I was told that the fix (assuming it is the only leak) is to replace the compressor. Saturn is quoting about $1200 because they are using a different compressor and hose than the one in the VUE presently. I didn't get a true estimate from an indie, but he said $900-$1000. Does this sound about right? Any suggestions?
As of now, the A/C is running fine with the recharge and I am hoping to make it through the summer and not actually have to deal with it until next spring.

Thanks from the automotive-impaired ;)

[BobbyP]

I have an '03 VUE (72K) that has just been to the shop for A/C problems (not getting cool if ambient temp is high).
I had the system recharged with dye additive and it seems that the leak is from the compressor (dye pretty heavy under the belt/under alternator?). I was told that the fix (assuming it is the only leak) is to replace the compressor. Saturn is quoting about $1200 because they are using a different compressor and hose than the one in the VUE presently. I didn't get a true estimate from an indie, but he said $900-$1000. Does this sound about right? Any suggestions?
As of now, the A/C is running fine with the recharge and I am hoping to make it through the summer and not actually have to deal with it until next spring.

Thanks from the automotive-impaired ;)

My mom just had the same problem with her Daewoo Leganza. It was around $800 to replace the compressor. I paid $900 for the compressor and R134a conversion on my SC.

Maybe someone elese knows about the compressor change.

[Ritz]

A remanufactured/rebuilt compressor with a new clutch is going to run about $400. You'll also need to replace the receiver/drier (another $75-100) and flush the system. The system needs to be flushed out and refilled with the proper amount of refrigerant oil, then evacuated down to a vacuum, checked for leaks, then the proper amount of R134a is added. It's a somewhat labor intensive process. Depending on labor rates in your area, $800-1000 for this repair is a good ballpark estimate for compressor replacement.

Best,

[VTchemist]

I agree with Ritz on the figures to replace the compressor. It is a labor intensive process. Depending upon the shop that does it, $900 (as a low) to $1200 (as a high) seems right.

I just had my 2003 VUE in the shop for AC system repair. I too had problems with cooling and had been recharging the system for about the past two years. Turns out, I had a seal leaking between the dryer and the its high pressure hose. Cost me about $180 to fix and recharge.

I went through a similar experience with my 1986 Chevy Astro van. The compressor had a leak. A recharge would only hold for about 1 month. Given that it was R-12, recharging was too expensive after the old freon was restricted and then taken off the market.

I had the compressor replaced (about $800). Price included the refit of the system to R-134a. I did this in 2002. All was well when I sold it in 2005 (at 245K miles).

If you want to keep your VUE, I suggest you follow the advice of the dealer and replace the VUE. If you don't want to keep it for the long haul, you can keep on recharging it (kits at AutoZone). But that is just a temporary fix. At some point the compressor will fail.

Hope this is of help to you.

[sylph978]

I did some more checking and it is going to be more along the lines of $1800-$2000!!! The 1st guy at the dealer failed to quote everything that goes along with replacing the compressor since they have changed manufacturers. LOVELY!!!

[Ritz]

I did some more checking and it is going to be more along the lines of $1800-$2000!!! The 1st guy at the dealer failed to quote everything that goes along with replacing the compressor since they have changed manufacturers. LOVELY!!!

See my post above. You're being ripped off.

Best,