Need some Advice, I have 2001 GS300 over 250k miles. i have a AC problem. need a compressor, but i have 2 options

Option 1 purchased compressor only [ down side i may need complete kit [its a 50/50 gamble] on whether it will fix the problem cheaper fix

Option 2 purchase the complete kit expansion valve, evaporated, and heater cord [down side take out passenger side dash to do complete kit] much more exspensive

has anyone experienced this problem? if so what option did you do? and has anyone just had a compressor installed and that solves the issue? [ my heat works] just AC Dosent

 

I think step 1 would be to find if you have any leaks in the system. That would determine what you need to replace in addition to the compressor if its dead. I would also get a new filter when you replace the compressor

 

I would only do step 1. The A/C compressor is easy to get to under the hood.

If you do step 2 then change it all while you are under there such as the expansion valve and evaporator. The heater core I would not change as they last pretty long on these vehicles when used with the proper Toyota Red coolant unless you use that universal corrosive green coolant.

 

new filter meaning? which?

 

On the A/C system you have the Drier/Accumulator/Desiccant Element (different terms).

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/lexus,2004,gs300,3.0l+l6,1426047,heat+&+air+conditioning,a/c+receiver+drier+desiccant+element,16858

It can get clogged over a long time or if anyone ever added those off-the-shelf cans of freon with stop leak additives which will gum them up but when you put a new a/c compressor in anyway most shops change that filter as well.