1996 Mercedes-E320 A/C Compressor Replacement?

Question

The compressor died on my 96 Mercedes E320. I don't want to spend $500 to get an actual Mercedes brand compressor. I looked under there, and my compressor looks the same as those found on most domestic cars from the last ten years or so, pretty standard. But, I am not sure.

I need somebody to tell me if the compressor on my car could be replaced with one from a more common car, and therefore save a lot of money.

Answer 1

sorry, but no.  while it is most likely a nippon denso compressor it has a speed sensor in the back of it [this sends a signal to the climate system to let it know that the compressor shaft is turning] if not sensed it will think the compressor has locked up and will turn off power to the compressor clutch [thus saving the single serpintine belt]  if the belt breaks you will need a tow to prevent further damage.