Should we get this fix?

Question

I really need some opinions about this, my husband and I can't decide.

We have an old car, a 95 intrepid recently the Air Compressor went out, the air cuts of and on and the air compressor lets out a loud noise sometimes.

We took it to a few mechanics and each said it would be over 800 dollars to fix.

My question is, is it worth it?

Summer is almost over, should we just forget about it or is this something that would come to haunt us later on.

Answer 1

If the AC simply didn't work, I'd say leave it 'til next summer.

But bad noises means you can't let it go.  

If your Intrepid has a V-belt, you might be able to get a shorter V-belt and simply bypass the AC.  

If it has a serpentine belt, you're stuck buying another compressor.  

If you want to keep it down & dirty, you can research car-part.com and find a used compressor.  That would at least save you the expensive part price, but you'll still need a professional AC shop to do the evac and recharge.

Answer 2

I would leave it alone until next summer, but the belt may look up and break sooner or later and you can get a smaller belt and bypass the a/c compressor.

Answer 3

If you decide not to replace the compressor be absolutely sure you unplug the electrical connection to it. This plug will insure that the clutching mechanism will not engage.

Apparently you haven't shopped around for a replacement compressor. autopartswarehouse.com has replacements that cost between $219. -$260.00. Check with local auto parts stores in your area and hire an independant mechanic to bolt it on an re-charge your air conditioning unit.

Answer 4

I say get it fixed.   If you wait it may end up costing alot more, and you'll feel better knowing your driving a car that is in full repair!

Answer 5

I agree with Pilgrim! Get it fixed! If you are hearing sounds then it probably is an indication that the clutch in your compressor pulley is going out. If that happens, the compressor will eventually lock down and burn the engine belt off and you'll be stranded and STILL need to get it fixed! Best bet is to get it fixed while you're NOT stranded!

Answer 6

Only you can determine if it is worth the price or not.  If you plan on doing it next year, the price will just go up.  I would say the the Clutch is going out along with the front seal of your compressor.  If you are going to keep the car and want air then you need to repair it.  The clutch should free wheel when not in use if it is disconnected.  However, if it does not get disconnected then it will most likely lock up and burn your belt up.  And of course this will not happen in your driveway, but when you least expect it, some distance from home and the you need a wrecker.  So if you are going to do it, do it now before you pay a high price. The old saying pay me now or pay me later is so very true.  

Answer 7

i wouldn't bother fixing it this late in the year,it wont cost no more to wait than it will now to repair it,and by then you might decide to trade it off,so id let this one pass for now,good luck