2005 S60 2.5T AC Condenser

JNavas · Post by **JNavas** » 22 Jun 2015, 14:44

Ordered a new AC condenser online because the one in my 2005 S60 2.5T is leaking, and while the one I received looks like the VADIS parts diagram, it's different from the one in the car (FoMoCo part). What do I need to get instead? Thanks.

UPDATE: Found out Volvo switched AC on 2005 S60 starting with VIN 470972, mine is 471595, so later spec unit.

Recommendations on good-quality, low-cost replacement brand (e.g., APDI/PRO, Spectra Premium, Four Seasons, Nissens)?

UPDATE 2: Decided to go with Spectra Premium from RockAuto. I've also ordered a Santech A/C HNBR O-Ring Kit on eBay ($11 delivered versus $80+tax from Volvo dealer).

Post by **Vovo_merz** » 22 Jun 2015, 17:56

It doesn't really matter what brand you get, going after market I would just go with the cheapest one out there as I learned its usually all the same just different (dealer/stores) are charging different amount of money for the same product.

found this on ebay
http://www.ebay.com/itm/321278818703?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT

JNavas · Post by **JNavas** » 24 Jun 2015, 09:19

Vovo_merz wrote:It doesn't really matter what brand you get, going after market I would just go with the cheapest one out there as I learned its usually all the same just different (dealer/stores) are charging different amount of money for the same product.
found this on ebay
http://www.ebay.com/itm/321278818703?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT

Thanks. While cheap ones on eBay are indeed probably just branding of cheap Chinese parts, there are differences in quality. Spectra Premium has a better warranty, is ISO 9001 quality certified, and RockAuto stands behind it, making it worth the extra $40 to me. I've also ordered a Santech A/C HNBR O-Ring Kit ($11 delivered versus $80+tax from Volvo dealer).

JNavas · Post by **JNavas** » 02 Jul 2015, 09:11

Spectra Premium AC condenser clearly much higher quality than first condenser I bought on eBay,
came complete with all o-rings and fittings. Except Service Valve has different threads (on both ends) than
valve on original Volvo condenser, so Volvo cap won't screw on, but will press on. Replacement was otherwise
straightforward, although some bolts are very hard to access (2 hour job). After professional recharge
(with evacuation and leak test) it now blows significantly colder than it has since I bought the car a year ago.
Total cost to replace AC condenser including labor from my mechanic and professional recharge: $420.