RobR350

My R350 AC seems to be non functioning as it was blowing air etc, but it wasn't cold. At first I thought it just needed re-gassing and I got it done (as my car is 2007) but now its re-gassed its still not working?

Is there anything common to check? I tried a local electrical car guy but he came up blank so my next stop is my merc dealer....

Thanks in advance for any tips.

B34chBum

Any decent shop should be able to check the A/C system, no need for the dealer.

The local independent I use confirmed the A/C compressor on our car had failed. And sold me a compressor to put on myself.
And vacuumed the system (stored the refrigerant) while I replaced the compressor, then charged it back up after I was done with the work.

You might not get that level of service, but if you call around or get recommendations from friends you'll probably do better than dealer.
From memory I paid $300 or so for a new Denso unit.

RobR350

My local shops seem pretty scared haha! Thanks for the response though..$300 for a new unit sounds very nice. I was terrified it might end up being $1000+

B34chBum

I also paid a service fee for him pumping the system down and recharging.
And, put in my time to do it.

I should also say, it's kind of an awkward job at first glance. You need ramps, metric hex keys (Allen Wenches) and the inverted torx sockets are always needed for MB vehicles.
It's tucked in pretty tight under/behind the power steering pump reservoir.
Removing the left hand airbox would make things easier to see and probably reach , although I didn't do that.
You would want to ensure you have the correct new O-rings for the hoses, as the often are Not included with the compressor.

I would imagine a shop would charge 3 or four hours labor (guessing here).
I was told also this type of compressor (continuous operation) typically doesn't need a new receiver/dryer or orifice.
By the time you see markup for parts plus shop fees I would guess service could cost $750-900, depending on shop rate etc.

For me, it was a days' project due to forgotten O-rings, the inevitable missing tool, and inevitable running around.

Hope this helps

RobR350

Haha, thanks. If i have a hand in doing it, it will be a 48 hour job with zero chance of success......

I'll check another local garage before my merc dealer...