Replacing A/C clutch

I had the same problem and I ended up replacing the compressor (with clutch) with a rebuilt unit. I replaced the drier and recharged the system. It's been running fine ever since. I was unable to find a clutch by itself.

 

I'm not positive but, I'm pretty sure a flashing light indicates a low freon level. I would charge the system before replacing anything. The fact that it gets cold to begin with shows the clutch and compressor are working. When the compressor runs out of freon, it no longer cools and you get the flashing light. Low freon "usually" indicates a leak in the system (but not always). Recharge it first (<$40). If it works for a couple of weeks after recharge and the symptoms return, you have a leak. If you want to jump the gun, you can buy the freon w/ dye (ie: leak detector) in it.

 

The clutch assembly looks to be about $195 new at the Toyota dealers that sell online. I don't know how that compares to the rebuilt whole compressor price, but if you don't have easy access to evacuation/reclamation equipment, the clutch-only approach might be less hassle.

-Chap

 

The blinking light indicates a difference in the speed of the motor and the speed of the a/c compressor. It will blink if the belt is slipping or if the clutch is slipping.

 

My 2001 prius after 190,000 miles started the blinking light problem--1st, I tried to add freon--luckily the compressor had an over-charge valve--The problem was that the clutch face was slipping--remove shroud, remove the clutch plate and grind down one of the spacer washers approximately 2 thousands--put back and that will probably solve the problem

 

Station's AutoBlog: Gen 1 Prius A/C Clutch Diagnostics and Replacement