Air Conditioning Query
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.
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.
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




