AC compressor died, both toyota and my personal mechanic quoted me around $1200.

I live in Phoenix, so it's almost impossible to drive my car now without AC. My prius is blue, so that doesn't help either.

Anyways, I have an 04 gen 2 prius with around 208k miles. The AC went out for the first time. My mechanic says there is a leak in the AC compressor and I need to replace it.

He said the compressor would cost about $800, and he would charge my $250 to replace it. Toyota said the compressor would cost about $850, and they would charge me $450 to replace it.

I've read around that a gen 2 AC compressor from a salvaged car can be found relatively cheap. However, my mechanic said if I buy salvaged, to be weary of defective units.

Can anyone point me to a legitimate website, or place where I could find a compressor for less? And maybe some tips on spotting potentially faulty compressors?

I'm ok with paying my mechanic for the job, just not ok with paying $800 for the part.

Thank you in advance for any help!

P.S. A few months ago I replaced the Prius cluster unit. I was quoted $1200 for the part, and $400 to replace at toyota. I found the part refurbished for $120, and I replaced it in an hour. So I have high hopes the same could be done with the AC compressor (though I wouldn't be able to replace it myself).

 

I am, but I don't plan on keeping this car for long. I plan to upgrade to a newer prius within the next year or so. However, in AZ, it's just not an option to be without AC, so for the time being, I just want to get by.

 

Ok, thank you! Is there any way to check if they are in good or bad shape?

 

Ok, awesome! That's definitely something I'll do. It's a good start at least. I mean, for $150 it's definitely worth the risk, I'm just worried about the $250 for the labor