How do you change the air conditioning compressor of a 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue?

Answer 1

Probably not completely a do-it-yourself job, unless you want to become an ozone hole creator. Basic steps are as follows. This is a bit of a complex job to answer in sort of forum. For specifics on the nuts and bolts of removing the actual compressor, check your Chilton or Haynes manual or hopefully someone else will chime in.

Connect the car to a refrigerant recovery machine, pump the refrigerant into the recovery tank, remove the belt, remove and replace the compressor, reconnect recovery machine, pump out air and moisture, and recharge the refrigerant and oil.

When the system is opened, it's recommended to replace the filter drier (moisture will kill the a/c system).

A few notes: A refrigeration tech will collect the old refrigerant rather than releasing it to the atmosphere. It is a CFC, which neutralizes ozone in the atmosphere - hello global warming. Venting refrigerant is a federal crime.

Refrigerant is very costly nowadays. Even replacing it yourself you will spend about $60 or more on the refrigerant alone, if you can find it at all.

If you do it yourself, it's best to have a pro handle the refrigerant removal and recharge. If you don't, the open lines will likely collect moisture, which can lead to system failure of you new compressor or evaporator.