[jkim972]

Well, the thing is that the AC works perfectly fine when the car is warmed up. I was asking because Eric earlier said I may have to change the whole compressor assembly. It would be great if all it needs is a clutch replacement. But, I am not sure if that’s possible….

[jkim972]

I was looking around to see if I can purchase the clutch alone and I can’t find any… I just called a shop to ask(major chain) and they just told me it comes as a package. So, I have to replace the entire assembly which with their mark up the part alone was $1k plus couple hours of labor to collect and recharge the refrigerant. so, in the end I will probably walk away with about $1200 out of my pocket.

I don’t know if I have any other options at this point. But, at least I know what the problem is. I will probably just live with this for now.

Anyways, Thank you so much for the help.

[jkim972]

I looked at it again and It looks like the AC compressor issue. It was the only pulley that wasn’t spinning with the AC off which I assume it’s the clutch. But, when I turned the AC on it was spinning with some hesitation. It was spinning more freely as the engine got hot and the squealing chirp stops when it reached the normal operating temperature.

My next question is… how hard is it to replace to compressor by myself in my garage?

[jkim972]

I think the compressor is at the very lower right corner of the engine facing the front of the engine. It doesn’t look like a simple job to do. I will probably see if I can have a shop do this for me. But, what am I expected to pay in labor?

[jkim972]

It only makes noise when the AC is on. But, once the car gets warmed up the noise will stop, even when I am idleling. Would this still be the compressor?

[jkim972]

It’s just a chirping sound. it doesn’t sound like the full blown squeal. so when I see that the fan is kicking in is when I hear the chirp. it will immediately stop when the fan is off. maybe the increased speed when the fan is turned on is what’s making the belt slip.

Is changing the idler pulley even worth a try you think?

[jkim972]

Yes exactly. that is the only situation when I hear the chirping noise

[jkim972]

Maybe I should check the AC without the engine on and see what happens. Otherwise, how do I check the compressor clutch and how do I know when it engages?

[Author]

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