2007 Camry (Japan VIN) Air Compressor $2000?

[grieger]

Hi,

A/C issues. Diagnostic check, compressor, dryer, etc. Mechanic said no auto parts companies carry the compressor and that it would have to be special-ordered with a 2 week - 1 month+ wait ... at $2100.

Is this correct?

If so, can anyone point me to some "engineering hacks" that might allow me to use a regular compressor from models built on American assembly line? Is it just a bolt here or there, some grinding and torque... The car is paid for with high mileage so not worried about warranties or anything.

Thanks-

gabe

[molson.david]

look on junk yards and ebay.

as far as know japan and us camry are mechanically identical.
ac compressors from V-6 fit I-4 too.

[JohnGD]

Check Denso Aftermarket's website. The car needs 471-1617. They only have new units, not reman, so the price is about $480 on rockauto.com instead of $200 less for reman units.

Denso shows Carquest, XL Parts (2140 Taylor St Houston, TX 77007), Four Seasons Radiator (6419 Winfree Houston, TX 77087) as retailers.

Rockauto does list this as "non-stocked one", so can take up to 2 business days to order.

www.densoaftermarket.com

[grieger]

Thank you John. I suppose I should have been a bit more diligent with my Internet searching. Appreciate the help.

[grieger]

I looked at their website and the part number, but how do you know this fits the Japan assembly line models (J.... VIN#)? Does it say somewhere and I just do not see it on the site? I know a regular compressor is cheap, but apparently the Japanese-built use different. Got the car in summer 2006 directly off the boat. </ignorant>

Figured the mechanic knew what he was talking about, but maybe not - taking it to someone else for another look.

[gdanaher]

The parts are the same. Not every part on a Japan build is different than the part on a Kentucky build. If in doubt, go to the dealer and ask them. Sometimes you don't need to overthink things.