2006 Prius Air Conditioning compressor

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by megansully, Jun 8, 2011.

  1. megansully

    megansully New Member

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    I just found out that the airconditioning compressor is broke in my 2006 prius and its going to cost $1800 to fix it.. I am not in the loop here but that sames ridiculously high. I mean i save money at the pump but all that money just went out the door if i get this repaired. I am really contemplating trading the car in rather than deal with that expense.. Am I insane that a 65000 mile car should not being need this type of maintenance. ??
     
    #1 megansully, Jun 8, 2011
  2. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    You are right that a 5 year old car with 65K miles should not require this service. Nevertheless, since it does and the AC compressor is a special unit powered by an electric motor, the repair is quite expensive.

    As an alternative you might look into the possibility of buying a salvage part; however you bear the risk in the event that the part is not operational.

    If you trade the car in, the trade-in value will likely be reduced to account for the AC cost of repair so I am not sure how that will help from a financial perspective.
     
    #2 Patrick Wong, Jun 8, 2011
  3. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    Ask yourself how much new or used car you can buy for $1800. Then get the compressor replaced and get on with life.
     
    #3 richard schumacher, Jun 12, 2011
  4. wtfjr36

    wtfjr36 Junior Member

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    I'd get a second opinion for another dealer & also check with two different independents as to do you really need this replaced & if so, what would they charge, if they can do the work.
    Good luck !!
     
    #4 wtfjr36, Jun 13, 2011
  5. LIPriusFreak

    LIPriusFreak Can I haz JDM?

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    +1..if you own the car outright, MUCH cheaper to replace a compressor and keep your 50MPG then buy another car and hope the new car gets HALF that mileage....
     
    #5 LIPriusFreak, Jun 13, 2011
  6. seilerts

    seilerts Battery Curmudgeon

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    Salvage compressors are cheap. The trick is to find someone that can do the installation, since it involves high voltage work.
     
    #6 seilerts, Jun 13, 2011
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