broken hose

[pb1979]

I took my 2000 windstar minivan to the shop today and I already knew the compressor wasn't coming on and was only blowing warm air. The guy told me there is a broken hose and is going to charge me $220 to fix that and add freon, etc. Can anyone tell me what hose this might be and if it would be something that my husband can fix (other than adding freon)?? We live in TEXAS and we HAVE to have air!! We also have three small children!! Please help if you can! Thanks!

[busboy4]

Hi,

Sorry to hear of your problem. Ford's A/C hoses are a bit complicated - not totally beyond the DIY'er but a challenge. They use an unusual connector that requires a specialized tool (available at most auto stores) to open. As to the hoses, there are a couple and they are not cheap (around 80 for the low pressure, over 200 for the high). Once the hose - assuming the diagnosis was correct - is replaced the system has to be connected to a vacuum pump to remove the air, and insure a secure system. If it can hold a vacuum then the freon can be replaced. I would guess that they would charge you $59-$79 at least just for A/C service and then freon on top of that. R134 freon is not too expensive but they will charge you for every ounce.
So... I would think you could be in it over $100 before freon service. I know every dollar counts but $220 doesn't sound too bad to get you going again. Also, unless they do the work, they will not cover it under any kind of warranty. They probably will not warranty over 90 days anyway but that is something.

Hope that helps.