My daughter's car is 95 Honda in which we paid 5K. The a/c went out and will cost 1K. Is it worth fixing?

Question

I am trying to live a debt free life and was not planning to buy my daughter another car but she is still in college and works in part time. I live in Central Texas and of course it is hot. I have money for the repair but don't want to throw good money after bad.

Answer 1

If the car is mechanically sound and it still looks good then it's worth fixing. $ 1000 sounds extreme. research the cost of parts yourself. Ask around to different shops as to how much they charge for labor per hour. Did you get a detailed estimate of what's needed to be replaced? It seems like a few things would be replaced for that price. Don't be afraid to ask many questions and if your not comfortable with the answers a shop gives you then try another shop. There are many great shops out there. Once you find one you can trust ,use them.

Answer 2

It depends on the overall condition of the car and how much you would pay to replace the car.

If the car is in great condition otherwise, it might be wise to fix it - to avoid another car payment/down payment, etc.

Does the a/c not work at all or is it just not very cold? If it's just not very cold, that's more likely a tube that has a crack in it.

Also, did the a/c work when you bought the car? Did you buy it from a dealership? Your contract may have options open to you.

Answer 3

Not enough details to answer definitively, but it's reasonable to expect a Honda auto to 'live' until 150-180,000 miles if it's reasonably cared for. A thousand dollars sounds relatively high even if the compressor needs replacing. I would get a quote from a national repair chain like Pep Boys and make sure they offer a good warranty.

Answer 4

If the rest of the car is in good condition and she can't live without the a/c, then sure.

But, why not just open the windows? I live in Toronto, Canada, it's extremely hot and muggy today. I think they announced a heat alert, and I still don't use the a/c in my car. I'm actually in the process of purchasing a brand new 2007 vehicle with no a/c.

A/C is not a necessity, so I wouldn't get it fixed unless you can afford it.

Answer 5

1K seems like a bit much for parts and labor for a compressor. I'm a mechanic. some of the other people here said that maybe the system needs to be recharged (with r134 refridgerant)...I'd try that avenue..it's not too expensive. with the car running, turn on the AC and see if the compressor "clutches" by looking at it's pully. if it clutches, the compressor is working..it may only need more refridgerant.

Answer 6

I have the exact same car (well a 95 Honda Civic) and same problem but didnt find the cost yet. I would pay up to $400 to get it fixed and if it is more I would..............actually I'm going to read your answers on here.

Answer 7

1K sounds like alot to pay....is there anyone you know...besides a repair shop.....that could take a look at it for you and maybe fix it alot cheaper? We've had A/C problems with our cars before...and sometimes it's the compressor or it just needs some freon. Good luck!

Answer 8

If the rest of the car is worth keeping and is in good condition go ahead and fix it, or just let her go without ac...it's not a big necessity

Answer 9

It really depends on where you live and how often she'll need the AC. If you live in the northern states, then I wouldn't bother. But in the South then I would say most definately.

Answer 10

Depends on the miles,,,, if it has a lot of miles then you are putting more in the a/c then the car is worth.