Hello Again, I am new here. THANK YOU.
The dealer says my air conditioner is blowing warm air because it needs a $3,000.00 repair, a new compressor (I think). I took it to Auto Zone and the super nice guy there said it might just be the switch located near the "bubble window" near the front of the engine compartment (driver's side) and if the switch is a "closed system" I might be able to replace it myself.
SOMETIMES the air blows "COOL" (but not COLD) & I can't get it to make the inside passenger cabin cold. More often it blows HOT or WARM air. It's trying!
Is this something I can fix myself? I'm pretty handy and work on my 1991 Toyota pick-up.

APPRECIATIVELY,
FlowWOOLF

 

I'm assuming you don't have a check engine light on? If you do, you certainly want to read the trouble code.
That said, compressors can cost $1,000 and receiver/driers about $100. Both parts can probably be found for less, so you'll want to do a search. I've never worked on the a/c my self, but if you're good with a wrench, and you're simply removing and replacing main parts( (rather than trying to fix them) I think it's doable-but someone else will have to chime in for sure. I suppose you've already considered recharging the refrigerant, because that is the first place to look. As with many car problems, the diagnosis is a hard part.
good luck.

 

I just had a new compressor supplied fitted to my CLK 320 for AU$850 (US$750). We sourced the compressor from Nippendenso, who were the original suppliers for $550.

 

You can change the compressor yourself, but you still need the involvement of a "shop" during the process. To be legal, you have to have the system evacuated and that is done with a special machine (granted you could just release it into the air, but that's a non-no). Once you have it all apart, you have to have the system flushed (a process that can be DYI, but much easier and more effective with the right equipment). And you have to make sure that you the correct amount of oil in the new compressor. All in all, it is probably best to have a qualified mechanic do major AC repairs, but it does pay to shop around. I'm sure you could find a qualified independent shop that would do it for a lot less.