Anyone who works on AC systems has to have special tools and recycling
equipment, plus be certified by the EPA. Many use these requirements as an
excuse to jack up what they charge their customers. Well, somebody has to
pay for the vacuum pump, recycling station, training, and licensing fees.

I put a factory AC kit in my 1999 Civic HX, a couple years back. I did it
in my back yard, but I do have some of the recommended equipment. I figure
compressor replacement should take two hours, one if you know what you are
doing. Then you have to pump down the system, check for leaks, and add
refrigerant. Another hour, if no leaks are found. Then they are going to
charge you maybe $20 retail for 12 oz. more or less of refrigerant. You
figure these guys want to charge you $300 an hour for labor?

Ask around for a good automotive AC repair specialist in your area. It
doesn't have to be a Honda dealer. They don't have to buy the compressor
from Honda. Try the Yellow Pages or ask at the local parts stores. If the
other guys are charging less, then you win. If they are all charging this
rate, then all you lose is some time doing research.

Earle

"pugal" <ppugalenthi@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1151334656.307453.94480@p79g2000cwp.googlegro ups.com...
> Hello All,
> When I turn on the A/C in my 1998 Honda Civic EX....I get the feeling
> that the engine is stalling. The dealer checked it and told me that the
> A/C compressor must be replaced and the total charge for the
> replacement including labor is 1,200/- I checked the price of the
> compressor and it is $320. Not sure why the dealer is charging me 3
> times the price of the part.
> I live in Woburn- Massachusetts. Any recommendations? Please help.
>
> Thanks
> Pugal
>



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