My car since i got it (used) always made this loud noise under the hood while the a/c was running. it would kick in and out with the noise the entire time i was running it. i dont think it was the belts, but maybe the compressor. anyway, it worked for about 3 years just fine and the other day, no more noise, also, no more a/c. the a/c switch inside the car lights up but does nothing. the fan still blows hot air into the cabin. did my compressor finally go out? or can this be fixed a bit more cheaply?

What kinda of noise did you hear? was hit like a loud clicking noise or more of a grinding or whining type noise??? Either way, Sounds like your compressor finally hit the dust

Sounds like the compressor, mine is making a clicking noise at 194,000 miles but still works fine. You might try a charge before springing for a new compressor. but then again if you put in a new compressor it will have to be charged anyway.

okay it seems the freon leaked out, so i refilled it and the compressor kicked back on. About an hour later its blowing hot air again so i put some UV r34a to see where the leak was coming from and it seems to be coming from one of the compressor seals. not to sure if i want to replace the whole thing ahah

Think it should have been R-12 in a car this age...but I'm no expert on AC. Anyway sounds like you found the problem :(