The evaporator core is leaking. Found an ac shop who can change it for $550 if I get the parts. When they remove the dash, is it better to replace the heater core as well? It is not cheap. Another $200. I am replacing the evaporator, expansion value, drier. Replacing with AC Delco parts that I ordered on Amazon. There is no AC delco heater core. Is there a recommended part? Toyota dealership wanted $600 for the evaporator core(part #88501-48010), while I found AC delco one (Denso 476-0039 A/C Evaporator Core) for $206 on Amazon.
1. - $47
2. Lexus part (part 87107-48020) is $400 - 3. -$140
4. - $260
so much variation in price. No clue which one to go with.

The shop told that the blower motor can be replaced without removing the dash. So, I am not changing that now.
History: 4 years back, the compressor got fried and a reputable ac shop said they found leaks everywhere. Changed the compressor. But that didn't fix it. Decided not to spend any more money and left it like that. Now we are in TX and its not possible to live without AC. So, trying to get this done now. It is a 03 Lexus with 157K miles on it.
I don't think I can do this DIY - https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...iy-w-pics.html

 

I did some Googling and both Spectra and APDI had good reviews. As there's minimal pressure on it compared to the A/C system, I'd be comfortable going least expensive. You said many leaks were found previously, often that's o-rings. Get those other leaks taken care of too.

 

Thanks. I ordered the spectra one as it is orignally $230 but is selling at 80% off. I will tell the shop to check the leaks elsewhere (pipes, orings etc). Will replace pipes too if they look worn out.

 

AC shop said, the heater core is not exactly the same and the part I got has little rust at the connections. So, he didn't replace that. The old one looks good. He siad he didn't have to take the entire dash off. Just the left and the right and could take the evaporator out. Showed me the old parts. Now the ac works fine. He tested for 2 hrs and there are no leaks. 550 labor + 250 in parts (evaporator core and explansion valve).

 

Wow, you really dodged a bullet there. Do you think the seller of the heater core is the problem (80% off is a bit suspicious) or the core manufacturer? Glad it worked out for you though.