I bought a 2008 civic, the ac compressor makes a ton of noise. It's got 260k on it and basically not worth much, kind of a piece of junk car. I am thinking buy a used compressor for $130 or a new one for $250. Labor for this is very expensive like a $1000. The part is cheap I guess if AC does not work it is okay. The thing I am asking is what happens when you disconnect the hose? There is a vacuum in there? What kind of a hazmat scenario am I looking at? Is there a video of this so I know what to expect?

 

Look, I hate to be this guy, but if you have to ask, you need to take it to a shop for a new compressor and/or AC overhaul. It's not a vacuum but it's pressurized with refrigerant. Depending on the ambient temperature you have anywhere from 20 psi to 120 psi of R134a in the system. The hose will pop off and vent in your face and likely take a lot of oil with it. Automotive AC systems aren't like other parts where you can just replace something and be good. There's too many things that affect their operation and several parts have to be replaced and a vacuum pulled to be good.

If you're adamant, at least have the refrigerant recovered, get a service manual and/or an experienced friend to help, and use a shop for final vacuum and recharge by weight.

 

I am going to order one of those $240 do it yourself kits to empty it out with a compressor and everything. 120 psi sounds serious. I am researching for weeks before I do anything and I have a brother that is good at this stuff. Anyone wants to comment on the do it yourself kits with a vacuum pump. I hope not to blow myself up. Vacuum it out at the shop I would but there is no plates, so tow to the shop, maybe this vacuum pump thing makes more sense.