Adding oil to A/C compressor

RAGINGSOUL

MEMBER
2004 CHEVROLET TAHOE
5.3L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
179,000 MILES

My A/C compressor is making a scratching noise like it doesn't have enough oil in it. First is there a oil that can be added to the system? If so what type of oil would I use and can I add it without discharging the A/C? Or does this just mean the compressor is bad?

5 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

There is oil that goes into the system but this is a sealed system so you cannot add it without pulling the system down and recovering the freon and the oil then adding it back in once the system is repaired.

Here is a couple guides that will help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

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

The fact that the compressor is making noise more then likely just the bearing starting to fail. Unfortunately the compressor more then likely needs to be replaced. I attached the info from the manual on how to replace the compressor as I suspect this is what is going to need to be done.

However, if it is working then I would just leave it until you are ready to replace it.

Please let us know if you have questions on this.

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Monday, June 7th, 2021 AT 7:31 PM

RAGINGSOUL

MEMBER
34 POSTS

Thank you KaseKenny1 I was kind of afraid of that. I believe that that compressor is only a couple years old so its rather disappointing that I am going to have to replace it once again. I guess I'll purchase a little more expensive compressor.

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Tuesday, June 8th, 2021 AT 4:22 AM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Totally understand. However, one thing I have learned is the best part quality is not always the most expensive. What brand did you use prior? With this being a Chevrolet you have many options so let me know if you want a second opinion on the one you are looking at in the future. Thanks

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Tuesday, June 8th, 2021 AT 1:37 PM

RAGINGSOUL

MEMBER
34 POSTS

Awesome, thank you. Here is the VIN: 1GNEK13Z44J301037. These are the two I am looking at Four Seasons A/C Compressor 77376 ***** 4 Seasons A/C Compressor 78376******
4 Seasons A/C Compressor 78377 All from AutoZone.

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Tuesday, June 8th, 2021 AT 3:32 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

That is interesting that you mention this one. I have heard of a few people that had issues with them and luckily they were still in the warranty period. so they got them exchanged.

If it were me, I would go with the Denso option which is actually the OEM replacement. If you look at this link, you will see they are pretty closely priced.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/chevrolet,2004,tahoe,5.3l+v8,1424247,heat+&+air+conditioning,a/c+compressor,6628

You have to copy and paste this link as it doesn't link directly to the selection.

Please let us know if you have other questions. Thanks