Replacement of A/C compressor

RGLEAVES

MEMBER
2002 HONDA CIVIC
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
22,500 MILES

My mother's car was making a rattle type noise when her A/C was on blowing hot or cold. She took it back to the dealership where she bought the car new. The serviceman told her that the A/C compressor, clutch and coil needed to be replaced and the A/C recharged for an estimated $1,500.00. They told her the problem was that she didn't drive her vehicle enough and that is what cause it. Something about the parts not getting enough lubercation. Unfortunately she did not buy an extended warranty because she had a lot of faith in Honda's reputation that they needed minimal repairs and they outlast a lot of other brands. She knew she would not be putting a lot of miles on it that would increase wear and tear. Is the dealer's explanation plausible?
Thanks in advance for your help. My mom is on a budget and I am looking at helping her out with the repair costs if it is this costly.

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

The short answer is they are not wrong but not 100% correct either.

When an A/C system is not used, the compressor does not cycle the Freon and oil through the system so things can dry out. It is not uncommon for that to cause leaks. However, a rattling compressor is most likely due to it just beginning to fail. If it is rattling then it does need to be replaced to fix it but I would not do it until it stops operating. So if it is still blowing cold, I would just deal with the noise and save money until it stops blowing cold.

Here is a guide that will help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-air-conditioner-not-working-or-is-weak

I also attached the info from the manual on how to replace the compressor. Plus here is another guide that will help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor

Lastly, you don't have to go with a dealer replacement. There are a lot of options out there and if budget is the main concern, I would get a part price and see if you can find a cheaper one online.

Let us know if you have questions. Thanks

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