2010 XC60 70k miles. Runs perfect except for the AC stopped blowing cold air.
Local shop said the compressor clutch is bad and need to replace compressor $1200 USD. $650 for new compressor + labor, flush and fill system.

I see that the clutch is available separately for ~260.
Can the clutch be replaced without discharging the system?
Looks straight forward as the unit is on top of the engine and most clutches are just bolted on and plugged in.

Should I change the entire compressor?
Is this a DIY job? Once I add the up the cost of the compressor and flush/Fill seems like I may get close to $1200

I am handy with tools and work on my own vehicles including motorcycles.

any advice helpful thanks.

 

I am not sure if this is an DYI job or not.
Did you check youtube to see if there is a video on how to replace the ac clutch?

 

There's quite a few video on various ac clutch removal just not for the xc60. Looks relatively straightforward. BUT sometimes these things should be replaced as a unit for some specific reason?

I found this:
2010 Volvo XC60 A/C Compressor All Models 60-02344 NA

Claims to be close to the Sanden OEM unit. The price is sure right.

Going to get a second opinion from a trusted ac specialist shop.
Then make a decision.

First time on this site and I'm kinda wondering what kind of a nut spends 45k on a fine auto and then tears into it just for fun?

 

Going to get a second opinion on just replacing the clutch from a local a/c specialist I trust.

Found this:
2010 Volvo XC60 A/C Compressor All Models 60-02344 NA

not sure who its made by, Sanden is the OEM supplier. I can't imaging too many others manufacturing the part.

 

Just replaced the Solenoid clutch from VolvoPartsWebStore.com. Contact them with your VIN and get the correct part number for the one installed on your car.
I tried to installed a refurbished clutch from a independent company that said the one they had would work. It did not. Was close in dimensions but it was different enough to not work.
If you are a DIYer with some patience it can be accomplished in a day .I had removed a shim a year or so ago to get it working again, but this time, the clutch face was worn away so that a section of metal delaminated and the contact required no longer happed. Some pictures from replacing the clutch.

Notice the delaminated ring of metal

Compressor installed location

Old clutch face on top, new one on bottom

Remove a bunch of stuff to get the compressor out far enough to work on the clutch. The belt tensioner is probably the hardest part. Look on youtube for that. 3mm allen wrench to hold it in the locked open position

You have to get at the c-clips/snap rings holding the coil magnet and the pully hub on the shaft. They are a bear. Tried to get them off for a long time before finally getting the compressor out this far to really get good access to the snap rings.
Have Cold AC again. Compressor works fine. Compare the cost of $750 for a new Volvo compressor, plus Freon charge, etc. versus $250 for a Volvo Clutch.