Hey so Toyota quoted me $570 for a new condenser with A/C recharge and labor. The A/C does not work, only room-temp air comes out, essentially. The mechanic also said it sounded a little too loud. He says the condenser has a leak. My question is, is this system NEEDED for the other prous parts to function correctly, or can I just roll my windows down and enjoy the breeze? If it NEEDS replacement, can I trust an independent shop to do the work for a lower cost? -Thanks
The hv battery is often cooled with the ac on but it's not needed. You should still get it fixed, if one day you decide to sell the car, it'll be hard to sell without ac. If it does sell, the buyer will deduct the cost of the condenser, either way it'll cost you.