AC Compressor Recommendation - OEM or Aftermarket??

[AudioNut]

Should I go with OEM or aftermarket? I need to replace my AC Compressor for my 98 QX4. Thanks!!

[DAiNiUS]

I bought a remanufactured one off of eBay. Cost me $240 if I recall correctly. I believe that an OEM one is close to $700. I wouldn't waste extra money for an OEM one since it's going to offer the same thing and after all, you're installing it on a 15 year-old car.

[Slumpert]

Be sure you also get a new receiver drier. Skipped by many but just a tiny bit of moisture can play all sorts of havoc to the system.

[AudioNut]

My 98 QX4 was replaced with a motor/trans that has less than 50k miles on it. Therefore, I am looking for a AC compressor that will last and not break down in just few years. I have heard that the new aftermarket ones are not that great and will break down in 5 years or so.

[Towncivilian]

OEM should be the way to go if you care for longevity then.

I second the suggestion to replace the receiver drier with the compressor too.

[Slumpert]

I live in Houston and we take AC seriously down here..

I don't see many aftermarket options for our compressors and at least here in Houston, a busted AC is a main reason to junkyard your ride so I would not reccomend getting a JY one. I have bought a lot of items from Nissan lately and every one of them was noticably better quality than the "quick run" to autoparts stores got me.

[AudioNut]

I am in Phoenix AZ and we also take AC very seriously over here.

Anyhow, I found an OEM compressor on epay and it is $430 with shipping. I think I will go with that unless someone know where I can get one for cheaper. Yes...I will also replace the receiver drier with the new compressor.