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Camry 2024, AC stopped working

482 views 6 replies 6 participants last post by  ghettosled  
#1 ·
I have a 2024 Toyota Camry, and the air conditioning suddenly failed two weeks ago. I scheduled an appointment with the local dealership, and after checking the vehicle, they said the issue was caused by road debris hitting the condenser, which made the AC stop working. They gave me a quote of nearly $2,000 to replace the condenser and told me that Toyota would not cover this type of damage. Instead, I would need to file a claim with my insurance company.

We then contacted Toyota’s customer engagement department. Unfortunately, the representative we spoke with was very rude and dismissive. When we expressed doubts about the road debris diagnosis—especially since there’s no visible hole or damage to the condenser—they said they only rely on the dealership’s diagnosis and that we have no way to challenge it.

We asked to speak with a supervisor, but the representative refused and said she could only issue a ticket for the case, and someone would call us back within 24 to 48 hours. However, four days have passed and no one has followed up.

It’s truly disappointing and shameful for Toyota to handle a customer issue in such an unprofessional and disrespectful way.
 
#2 ·
To make matters worse, we have learned that the condenser in the 2024 Camry is mounted in a very low and exposed position, with no protective grille or shielding in front of it. This makes it extremely vulnerable to damage from common road debris. Other manufacturers, like Kia, have designed extra protective measures to prevent this exact issue. It raises serious concerns that this could be a design flaw in the Camry, putting customers at risk of expensive repairs for something that should have been better protected by design.
 
#3 ·
Take a second opinion from a reputable AC repair shop. Along with 2nd quote.
To be honest, never heard of anyone having issue with condensor being design flaw located too low. Unfortunately, you the first one to trot the path in this.
I looked it up, it's pretty much in standard location for condensor, not "extremely low". It is also a DIY job, no big deal.
Take 2nd opinion.
AC condenser is only $200.
Any AC shop should replace it for you and recharge for around $400-500 top. IF that's the cause.
 
#4 ·
Well, I think you already said it all ...
Warranty never covers accidental damage, that's what insurance is for. It has always been like that.
Exposed condenser is a common problem with Toyotas. Remedy? Don't fall for Toyota Cool-Aid and buy something else.
Don't buy supposedly OEM parts from eBay or Amazon - all these cheap parts are counterfeit, low quality knock-offs. Only buy parts from a reputable source.
The specific part in the link in the previous post is used and has visible damage.
 
#6 ·
Just get another opinion from an independent local shop. Probably it's a leak that can be sealed but the dealer technician did not want to waste time chasing it. They don't pay technicians enough to do good diagnostic.
If the dealer showed you a proof of the damage and your insurance is willing to cover it, just go for it and pay the deductible if yours is low. probably lower than an independent shop condenser, freon, and labor.
 
#7 ·
On such a new car, I don't feel a failed seal is likely. Debris impact causing a puncture is plausible and likely. The dealer should still treat you well even if they don't provide he solution you seek (warranty repair). Though $2000 to replace the condenser, vacuum the system, and recharge feels a bit steep.