When i turn off the air there is a whine/sqeal coming from the compressor. When its on its ok. How much more fuel does the air use and is it ok to leave the air on all the time.
2007-07-17 14:38:53 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Pontiac
Sounds like your a/c compressor/clutch is going.
Yikes, I just found out the prices of some of this stuff...
Compressor/clutch...$386-416
Accumulator/dryer...$30-50
Orifice tube...$2-50 (depending on what type you need)
A/C Flush...$35
Your a/c accumulator/dryer and orifice tube must be replaced when there is major work done on the a/c system. I know, it sucks, but it has to be done because when the compressor fails, parts inside the compressor break off and then you have specks of steel and metal circulating in your a/c system. Your other parts become clogged and then your a/c doesn't work right. And the mechanic should also flush the system to get rid of the debris.
So total parts would be between $450-550. And then you have to add in the cost of labor. Most dealerships charge over $100 per hour. Small or local shops charge half that! I would say that you are looking at a total price of about $750-900.
Also, you might have the option of purchasing a remanufactured compressor, I would strongly advise against it. Sure they cost less, but the usually only last between 1 week-1 year. So I would spend the extra money up front and purchase a new compressor and not have to deal with the same problem in the near future. I did some searching and found that a remanufactured compressor for your vehicle will cost about $250. That is a significant price differance, but unless you are on a very tight budget, I would spend more for a new one.
And studies have found that driving with your windows down or with your a/c on has very little effect on your gas mileage. Usually only 1 mpg...which is no big deal. Plus you have a '97 Sunfire...probably gets descent mpg. What would you rather do...open your windows or use your a/c? Me, I would rather use the a/c any day. Hey, if it's 90 degrees outside and you have your windows open, it will still be 90 degrees inside the car. I use my a/c all the time!
Good luck!
2007-07-17 16:06:38 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds as if the front compressor hub bearing is about to go. To be sure run the motor while listening under the hood with a solid object touching close to all the spinning members of the motor's accessories. Careful as you don't want to jam anything into the belt or bearings. If you can narrom it down, that is the problem. If not, turn the motor off and first inspect the serpentine belt for being worn or cracked. Also inspect the serp. belt tensioner for being bent or worn out as this was a big culprit for noise. If it is the bearing, you will need help as this is not for beginners. Good luck.
2007-07-18 14:32:11 · answer #2 · answered by Deano 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check the belt for glazing cracks,and it's tension.If that does'n't improve things it may be THE COMPRESSOR CLUTCH OR BEARINGS ARE GOING BAD....Not good.get it replaced before it locks up and leaves you stranded.
2007-07-17 21:51:03 · answer #3 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
windows down car becomes a parachute -better gas milage windows up at highway speeds ----and cant answer the rest everybody wants you to buy new expensive a/c parts --i just rebuilt my a/c system on my pick up for under 200.00 in parts -yours will be a lil higher though
2007-07-18 02:01:37 · answer #4 · answered by michael_stewart32 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First the belt is slipping,that is your squeal. 2nd, 2 tenths mi per gal is worth the air ,isn't it?
2007-07-17 22:53:42 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋