2001 Dodge Caravan Engine Roars When Turn On A/C

2001 DODGE CARAVAN
65,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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VU NGUYEN
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Please advise about my car's problem.
When I drive my grand caravan car and turn on A/C, the engine starts making noise sounds like roaring. Some mechanics told me I need to replace the A/C compressor. Is it true? How much does it cost for the new/remanufactured A/C compressors? Should I go for a new or used one?
Thanks,
Vu
Jun 21, 2010 at 2:51 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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It sounds like a bad bearing in the compressor. I would recommend a new one. On the Internet, you should be able to find a new one for around 250.00. If you get one from a salvage yard, chances are you'll end up with trouble.
Jun 21, 2010 at 11:11 PM
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VU NGUYEN
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how do i know my AC compressor is a 'rear AC'?
Also, I checked from dodge dealer and they told me the new one costs 670 but from Kragen or Winchester Auto Parts only $400.00.
Besides, 4 Season's price is $475 and Denso's $250
Why is there a big difference in prices?
Would you advise?
Thanks,
Vu
Jun 22, 2010 at 6:28 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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The one from the manufacturer will be the most expensive. The others are aftermarket. Usually, there isn't that much of a difference, but it has to do with where they are getting it from.

I have a question. This post you mentioned rear AC. Do you only hear the noise when you use the rear AC?

Let me know.

Joe
Jun 22, 2010 at 6:43 PM
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VU NGUYEN
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Hi Joe,
I just turn on AC and hear the noise even I put the control for the rear on or off.
So the rear AC means that another AC for the rear to differentiate with the front?
Thanks,
Vu
Jun 22, 2010 at 6:59 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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No, there is only one compressor. I was thinking you may have had a bad rear blower motor.
Jun 22, 2010 at 7:45 PM
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VU NGUYEN
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Hi Joe,
How much does it cost to fix the rear motor blower?
Is there any way to test AC compressor to know if it needs a replacement?
Thanks Joe.
Vu
Jun 23, 2010 at 1:59 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:
I just reviewed our conversations. Based on what you have described, I don't think it has anything to do with the rear. If you turn the AC on and the noise is coming from the front, it sounds like the AC compressor has a bad bearing. The bearing can be replaced, but by the time you add the part, and the additional labor to repair it, you are better off replacing the compressor.

Do me a favor. Aftermarket compressors can be found for under 300.00 dollars. If they try to charge you a lot more for the part, let me know and I'll direct you where to check for one. In addition to the compressor, they will need to recharge the system after it is replaced. I would expect about 1.5 hours labor + freon to recharge the system.

Please let me know if you have other questions or if you have questions about prices.

Joe
Jun 23, 2010 at 11:36 PM
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VU NGUYEN
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Many thanks to you, Joe.
You're a great help!!!
Cheers,
Vu
Jun 24, 2010 at 9:32 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You're welcome. I'm glad to help. Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe
Jun 25, 2010 at 12:38 AM