Is it OK to buy a used AC compressor for a car?

Author: Andre Romaguera IV  |  Last update: Saturday, July 12, 2025

A new A/C compressor will typically last longer than a used one, but with proper maintenance and care, a used A/C compressor can still provide many years of reliable service. Choosing between a new and used A/C compressor for your car is a decision that depends on a variety of factors.

Is it worth buying a used AC compressor?

Save Money With a Used AC Compressor!

Buying an AC compressor from a salvage yard is a way to practice sustainability and environmental awareness in real life– you're essentially recycling the compressor and reusing it– saving it from the landfill. When purchasing an AC compressor, inspect it for damages or defects.

Can you buy a used AC compressor for a car?

We also sell used compressors available for sale online and shipped anywhere in the United States. To buy online, just go to our website, identify the make and model of the vehicle you're looking for, and find used AC compressors available for sale.

How long does a used AC compressor last?

Most compressors have the same or similar life expectancies as traditional AC units. They typically break down after 15 years but can last longer with proper maintenance. Many people believe replacing their air conditioner's compressor is more cost-effective once it gives out.

Can you use a used AC unit?

A Used Air Conditioner Is More Likely to Need Repairs

When you buy a used AC system, you don't know how reliable it'll be until you plug it in and use it over the summer. The product from a third-party seller or distributor may come with some surprises, like broken parts or loud noises.

Good Used AC Compressor?

Is it safe to use an old AC unit?

Respiratory issues: using an old AC will decrease the air quality in your home, which can be a serious threat to anyone suffering from asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.

Can you sell a used AC unit?

Local HVAC contractors and dealers may be interested in purchasing used HVAC equipment for their inventory or refurbishing and reselling. Reach out to these professionals in your area, as they may offer competitive prices, especially if the equipment is still in good working condition.

Is it okay to buy a remanufactured AC compressor?

All replacement AC compressors may look like the original, but not all are built to the same specifications. AutoZone's remanufactured compressors provide the same level of quality, performance, and durability as the original equipment unit.

How much does it cost to replace a car AC compressor?

Replacing a car AC compressor can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000, but the final price depends on several factors: Car model: Luxury cars typically require more expensive compressors than standard vehicles. Vehicle age: Older vehicles with hard-to-find parts may be more expensive to fix due to the rarity of the parts.

What causes an AC compressor to stop working in a car?

One of the main reasons the car compressor fails is the lack of lubrication. It is essential to keep your car's AC compressor oiled up so that it can work properly and last longer without problems. Lubrication keeps your compressor's parts moving smoothly and prevents them from wearing down.

Is it worth it to fix car AC compressor?

Is it worth replacing a car AC compressor? It depends on the overall condition of your car. If your vehicle is relatively new or in excellent shape, then investing in a new AC compressor can be a cost-effective solution to keep your ride comfortable.

Can you run a car with a bad AC compressor?

While it's technically possible to drive with a bad A/C compressor, it's not advised due to potential risks to other components of the car, not to mention uncomfortable driving conditions.

Who makes the best AC compressors for cars?

One of the world's leading suppliers of A/C compressors for automotive applications, DENSO also offers both factory-new and remanufactured compressors to the repair industry and consumers as well. When it comes to new compressors, you can't do better than going with a unit manufactured by the OE supplier.

Can I buy a used AC compressor for my car?

Buying used AC compressors will cost you much lesser than buying a new AC compressor and hence it is much more pocket-friendly. If you buy used AC compressors it would in turn guarantee that you get your car back on the road without costing you a fortune.

Why is replacing car AC compressor so expensive?

To sum up, the high price of car AC service is an outcome of the complexity of the system, high demand in the summer, and ignorance of preventative maintenance. Drivers can avoid the irritation and expense of a failing AC system by having the system serviced at regular intervals and taking proper precautions.

How much is an AC compressor at the junkyard?

And every car taken apart by a junkyard has the AC compressor removed. So they have tons of them. A used one probably will cost you about $100 for the part, and then you'll have to pay someone a few hundred bucks to install it for you and charge the system.

What is the life expectancy of a car AC compressor?

A compressor should last about 10 to 15 years but may have a reduced lifespan if you use your air conditioning system frequently. If your air compressor is going bad, you need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop to have it replaced.

How long does it take a mechanic to replace an AC compressor?

The Answer Is Seldom A Simple One

It entails removing and disposing of any remaining refrigerant, disconnecting and removing the old compressor, installing the new one with proper fittings, and recharging with refrigerant. Add it all up and it typically takes four to six hours.

Can I replace a car AC compressor myself?

It's not always advised to do the job yourself. With an A/C compressor, it's precision work that could go sideways quickly. If a seal falls out, gets nicked or cut, or gets reused instead of replaced, it can cause a leak that depletes the refrigerant over the course of days, weeks, or months.

Is it a bad idea to buy a used air compressor?

Second-hand models will cost you up to 4 times more for a less durable or safe alternative. The same goes for refurbished compressors. Not only are replacement parts often more difficult to find for older models, chances are you'll have to resort to off-brand parts, which are never the same high quality.

What else should be replaced when replacing AC compressor?

Replacing the air conditioning system means putting in a condenser and a new indoor evaporator coil, while leaving the rest of the HVAC system in place. This is the most common choice when a compressor that's no longer under warranty dies.

How many years should an AC compressor last?

Compressors are actually very dependable (lasting on average between 12-15 years) so typically, when your AC compressor has gone bad there's an underlying cause that needs to be addressed lest the problem reemerge even after the unit has been replaced.

Are old AC compressors worth anything?

One of the most in-demand metals contained in these units is copper, and while the amount you will receive varies based upon your exact location and the value of the metal at the time you turn it in, it's generally quite a bit. Both the indoor and outdoor parts of these machines are quite valuable, in fact.

Should you replace AC before selling?

While the value will be different for each home, it is estimated that by replacing your AC, you could get 10% or more back on your investment. Having a brand new HVAC system will undoubtedly raise your home's value when compared to a home with an older HVAC system.

What should I do with my old AC unit?

First, find a recycling facility that accepts air conditioner units. In most areas, there are facilities specifically designed for the disposal of electronic wastes and appliances such as AC units. Search online or contact your local facility in charge of waste management for recommendations.

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