When your car’s air conditioning starts to falter, a reliable compressor is the key to restoring consistent, cool comfort on the road. The heart of your AC system, a high-quality compressor ensures efficient refrigerant circulation and powerful cooling performance, even on the hottest days. Choosing the right one is essential for both your comfort and your vehicle’s long-term health.
To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a roundup of eight top-performing Behr and compatible AC compressors. This list includes a range of options, from direct OE replacements to specialized electric models, all selected for their durability, cooling capacity, and positive user feedback. Our goal is to guide you toward the perfect compressor to get your system blowing cold air again.
Our Top Picks for Behr AC Compressors
- UAC CO 29002C A/C Compressor
- ACTECMAX Universal AC Electric Compressor
- UAC KT 4052 A/C Compressor and Component Kit
- Autoexact AC Compressor for Chevy Silverado
- Denso 4710522 NEW AC Compressor
- A-Premium A/C Compressor for Chevrolet, GMC
- Behr Premium 15B1499 A/C Compressor
- Behr Premium 15B1476 A/C Compressor
UAC CO 29002C A/C Compressor
For drivers seeking a direct, high-quality replacement, the UAC CO 29002C is a standout option. It is manufactured as a brand new unit to meet or exceed strict OEM specifications, ensuring a reliable fit and performance. This compressor comes as a complete assembly, including the body, clutch, pulley, and coil, which simplifies the installation process.
Built with premium ISO/TS 16949 quality standards, this compressor is lab-tested for durability. To protect its internal components during shipping, it may be charged with a special shipping oil. It is important to drain and replace this oil according to your vehicle’s specific system requirements during installation for optimal performance and longevity.
ACTECMAX Universal AC Electric Compressor
The ACTECMAX Universal Electric Compressor offers a modern solution for 12V systems, particularly useful for custom installations or specific vehicle needs. Its key feature is a separable controller, providing flexibility for mounting and wiring. With a 3-gear control type, it allows for adjustable cooling output to suit your comfort level.
This 20cc/r compressor comes pre-filled with 120ml of POE oil 68. A crucial installation note is to ensure compatibility with your existing system’s oil; if your system uses PAG oil, you must drain the supplied oil and use the type already in the system, or thoroughly clean the entire system to prevent oil mixing, which is vital for the compressor’s normal operation and lifespan.
UAC KT 4052 A/C Compressor and Component Kit
For a comprehensive repair solution, the UAC KT 4052 is more than just a compressor; it’s a complete component kit. This is an excellent choice if you want to replace multiple related parts at once, potentially saving time and labor costs. Like other UAC products, it is a brand new, lab-tested unit designed to meet OEM standards.
This all-in-one kit ensures that all components are compatible and work together seamlessly from the start. To guarantee a perfect fit for your vehicle, it is highly recommended to use the online fitment tools by adding your car’s year, make, and model before purchasing. This proactive step helps ensure a smooth installation process.
Autoexact AC Compressor for Chevy Silverado
Designed specifically for a wide range of GM trucks and SUVs, the Autoexact CO 29134C compressor promises powerful and efficient cooling. It boasts a high cooling capacity of up to 3800-4600 kcal/h, which can lower the cabin temperature by 10°F within just five minutes of operation. This makes it a robust solution for larger vehicles.
Beyond its power, this compressor is engineered for a quiet and smooth experience. It operates at less than 50 dB, which is significantly quieter than many standard compressors. This low noise and vibration level, combined with a design built for a long service life, contributes to a more comfortable and durable performance for your vehicle.
Denso 4710522 NEW AC Compressor
Denso is a renowned name in the automotive parts industry, often serving as an original equipment supplier for many vehicle manufacturers. The Denso 4710522 compressor is a vehicle-specific unit, meaning it is engineered to match the exact specifications of the original part it replaces. This guarantees a precise fit and reliable performance.
A key benefit of this compressor is its focus on efficient fuel consumption. By matching the original design’s efficiency, it helps ensure that your vehicle’s AC system does not place an unnecessary load on the engine, contributing to better overall fuel economy while providing consistent cooling power.
A-Premium A/C Compressor for Chevrolet, GMC
The A-Premium compressor is a compatible replacement for a wide array of Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and other GM vehicles from the late 1990s and early 2000s. It is an HT6 type compressor that comes pre-filled with 180ml of PAG100 oil and is designed for use with R-134a refrigerant, matching the specifications of the vehicles it fits.
This unit includes the clutch and features a 6-groove pulley, providing a complete assembly for a straightforward swap. Its broad compatibility with popular models like the Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, and Yukon makes it a versatile and practical choice for owners of these classic GM trucks and SUVs.
Behr Premium 15B1499 A/C Compressor
As part of the Behr Premium line, the 15B1499 model is built to the high standards expected from a leading thermal management supplier. Behr is known for manufacturing OEM components for many European and domestic vehicles, so their aftermarket compressors are designed to deliver original equipment-level quality and reliability.
This compressor is intended to provide a direct fit and consistent cooling performance for its specific vehicle applications. When you choose a Behr Premium compressor, you are selecting a part from a brand trusted by professional technicians for its durability and engineering excellence.
Behr Premium 15B1476 A/C Compressor
The Behr Premium 15B1476 is another high-quality compressor from a reputable brand known for its OEM partnerships. This model is engineered to restore your vehicle’s air conditioning system to its intended performance, ensuring reliable operation and efficient cooling power for a more comfortable driving environment.
Like its counterpart, this compressor is constructed with precision and tested to meet rigorous standards. Opting for a Behr Premium unit like the 15B1476 means investing in a component designed for long-term service life and dependable performance, making it a solid choice for a lasting repair.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Behr AC Compressor
When my car’s air conditioning starts blowing warm air, I know the compressor is often the first place to look. It’s the heart of the whole system, and choosing the right one is crucial for getting back to a cool, comfortable cabin. If you’re considering a Behr AC compressor for your vehicle, here’s what I focus on to make sure I get the right part for consistent cooling performance.
First and foremost, compatibility is everything. It might sound obvious, but you can’t just pick any Behr compressor off the shelf. I always double-check my vehicle’s make, model, engine size, and production year. A compressor for a 4-cylinder engine is often different from one for a V8. I use the VIN number for the most accurate parts lookup. Behr makes OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts for many European brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, so finding the exact match is critical for a seamless installation and operation.
Next, I consider the type of compressor. Behr offers different designs, like swash plate or scroll compressors, and they often come with or without a magnetic clutch. The type your car needs is determined by its original design. Installing the wrong type can lead to poor performance or even damage to the rest of the AC system. If I’m unsure, I compare the new part visually with the old one or consult a trusted mechanic.
I also think about the condition of the rest of my AC system. A compressor doesn’t work in a vacuum. If my old compressor failed, especially due to a mechanical breakdown, it likely sent metal shards throughout the entire system. In that case, just slapping in a new compressor is a recipe for a quick repeat failure. I always plan to replace the receiver/drier or accumulator and the expansion valve or orifice tube at the same time. Flushing the condenser and lines is also a smart move to ensure debris is gone. It’s a bit more upfront cost, but it protects my investment in the new Behr AC compressor.
Finally, I look at the source. I try to buy from reputable auto parts stores or well-known online retailers that offer a solid warranty. A good warranty gives me peace of mind that the part is built to last. While I might be tempted by a cheaper, no-name brand, I stick with Behr because of their reputation for quality and reliability. They are a trusted supplier to major car manufacturers, which tells me the part is designed to meet strict performance standards. For me, that confidence is worth a lot when I’m depending on that consistent cooling performance on a hot summer day.
FAQ
Are Behr AC compressors reliable?
In my experience, yes, they are very reliable. Behr is a major OEM supplier, meaning they manufacture the original parts for many new cars. When you buy a Behr compressor, you’re often getting the same part that was installed on the vehicle assembly line. This generally translates to a high-quality product built to last, which is exactly what you want for consistent cooling performance from your vehicle’s air conditioning system.
Can I install a Behr AC compressor myself?
While it’s technically possible for a skilled DIYer with the right tools, I usually recommend leaving this job to a professional. AC work involves handling refrigerant, which requires an EPA certification to purchase and handle legally. The system also needs to be properly evacuated and recharged with the exact amount of refrigerant and oil. A mistake can ruin the new compressor instantly. Unless you have specific training and the necessary AC recovery and recharge equipment, it’s a job best trusted to a qualified mechanic.
Do I need to replace other parts when I change the compressor?
I strongly recommend it. If the old compressor failed catastrophically, debris is now circulating in your AC system. To protect your new investment, you should replace the receiver/drier (or accumulator) and the expansion valve (or orifice tube). These parts act as filters and regulators, and they can trap the contaminants that killed the old compressor. Skipping this step is the most common reason a new compressor fails prematurely.
Why is my new Behr compressor making a noise?
A new compressor should be relatively quiet. If you hear unusual noises right after installation, it could point to a few issues. The most common cause is an incorrect amount of refrigerant oil in the system. Too little oil will cause the compressor to grind and seize, while too much can cause a knocking sound. It could also be an issue with the belt tension or a faulty clutch. I’d shut the system off immediately and have the installing technician check it out to prevent serious damage.
What is the typical warranty on a Behr AC compressor?
Warranty periods can vary depending on the retailer and the specific part number, but you can typically expect a limited warranty of one to two years. Some sellers might offer longer coverage. I always make a point to check the warranty details before I buy, and I keep the receipt in a safe place. A good warranty is a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.