Hi all, I'm a new member and finally made an account after not being able to find much info elsewhere.

I need to replace the AC compressor on a family member's 2011 S80 3.2. I'm planning on going with the Valeo from FCP euro which I don't believe is prefilled, so I need to know the oil type and amount for the system. The compressor calls for pag 46, but I've seen some conflicting info and want to be sure.

Also, I thought I should replace the AC drier as that's generally just good practice, but it seems this car doesn't have a standard accumulator cartridge, but rather some kind of desiccant pouch that I guess fits inline somewhere?

So what I need to know is the ac oil filling procedure, how to replace the drier and if/how that relates to the oil quantity, or just general tips and resources for the job if anyone's got em.

Any help is very appreciated,

thanks!

 

What's wrong with the compressor?

 

I don't know exactly. That's what the dealership said needed to be done. Apparently it works a little bit when it's cold outside, so It sounds to me like it's just lost its tolerances and isn't pressurizing enough on the high side.

I know people sometimes just replace the solenoid, but I figure for the cost involved in getting it evac'd and refilled I might as well just do the whole compressor and be done with it.

 

Yes my shop has replaced a bunch of the variable displacement valves when they stop working properly. 100% success rate. Those valves range in price from $70 to $200 depending on the brand and vendor. About an 1/2 hour to replace once the system is empty and an hour to evac and recharge. So a valve, 2.5 hours time, and A ~kilo of r134. I imagine the dealer would not be willing to replace the valve by itself - so you would need to seek an independent garage. (triple check the part number before ordering - there are several numbers)

Versus replacement compressor $370 plus +++

 

Thanks for the info @hoonk

I just wanted to avoid putting the new valve in, having it recharged, then finding out it actually was the compressor that was bad and having to do it all over again. I guess if that's such a common solution it's worth a shot. The car has around 110K miles on it if that helps at all.

Also what about the drier? would I need to replace it along with the compressor or valve, and is there a way to do so without removing the condenser?

I'm planning on doing the actual replacements myself, and having a garage evac it before and charge it after.