mysticknot

Hi all,
Brand new here and I really need some input. I noticed a hissing sound at the rear of my exp. I suspected the a/c since it stops when the a/c is off. Unfortunately it affects the cooling of my exp. as well. When it's not too hot then it cools but when it hot, it doesn't seem to cool. I haven't observed hot air coming out of it.
I brought it in to the local dealership and they said that I will have to replace my condenser, put freon, and oil. They also said it will cost me 1200USD. Figures, my car just ended it's warranty period a few months ago.
By the way its a 2005 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer with approximately 34K miles.
Question #1
Is it really that expensive?
Q #2
Can I do this by myself if I bought the parts?
Q #3
If I did it myself is there some sort of a DIY manual for this type of work?
Thanks in advance.

 

jwko

#1 $1200 is pretty steep.

#2 There's more to it than just buying the parts. You will also need the correct equipment. I think you should shop around and see what others would charge. You don't have to take it to Ford, any shop that specializes in A/C repairs can probably do the job cheaper.

#3 Yes there are books out there but without a recovery machine, vacuum pump & gauges your just wasting your time & money. Let a professional do the job.

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mysticknot

Thank you. That was really helpful.