The air conditioning compressor is a pump that compresses refrigerant vapor. It is driven by a fan belt and is mounted on the engine. The most common problem with the compressor is that the compressor piston becomes worn. When that happens then an air conditioning compressor replacement is necessary.
Special tools and knowledge are needed to perform repairs to the AC system. When replacing an air conditioning compressor, the work should be carried out by trained technicians. First the air conditioning system refrigerant is flushed and recovered. Then the high pressure lines connected to the compressor are removed. The defective compressor is removed and the new compressor is installed. Finally, the compressor lubricant and the refrigerant are replaced.
Most manufacturer's factory warranty cover an air conditioning compressor replacement under the bumper-to-bumper warranty, if it fails due to a manufacturer defect or workmanship. There are extended auto warranties available that will extend coverage of the air conditioning compressor after the factory warranty has expired. When purchasing an extended warranty, make sure to look at which coverage level includes the air conditioning compressor.