Does a new AC compressor come with oil?
Generally, yes—most new automotive A/C compressors arrive pre-filled with the correct lubricant, but it isn’t universal. For home or commercial HVAC components, the oil situation varies by brand and SKU, so always check the product details and installation guide before you buy or install.
What to expect by system type
Here’s how lubricant is typically handled for different air conditioning setups and what to verify before installation.
- Automotive A/C compressors typically come pre-filled with the correct PAG oil for the refrigerant used in the vehicle (usually R134a or R1234yf) and are sealed to prevent leaks during shipping.
- Some aftermarket or "dry" compressors ship without oil or with a minimal charge, so you must add the specified oil during installation and follow the vehicle’s service manual to avoid under-lubrication or overfilling.
- Central HVAC (home or building) compressors may come pre-oiled depending on the supplier, but others require you to add the recommended POE (polyolester) or mineral oil after install and to flush the system to remove contaminants.
- Oil type and quantity are refrigerant-specific; always use the manufacturer-approved lubricant and charge amount to protect compressor warranties and system performance.
Bottom line: always verify whether oil is included and, if not, obtain the correct lubricant and quantity specified by the manufacturer. Following the right procedure protects the compressor and the entire cooling system, and helps preserve warranties.
Tips for installation and verification
To avoid missteps, consider the following guidelines, and consult a qualified technician when in doubt.
- Check the product listing or box contents to confirm whether oil is included.
- Identify the refrigerant type in your system (R134a, R410A, etc.) to determine the proper oil type (PAG or POE) and the correct viscosity.
- Read the installation manual for the exact oil charge amount and whether the oil should be added before or after installation.
- Plan to flush the system if replacing a faulty compressor, and replace the drier/filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use manufacturer-approved lubricant only; avoid mixing oil types or adding oil beyond the specified quantity.
Following these steps helps ensure reliable operation and protects warranty coverage, while reducing the risk of oil-related failures.
Summary
In short, a new AC compressor often comes with oil, especially in automotive applications, but it is not guaranteed. Always verify with the seller, consult the installation guide, and use the correct oil type and amount for your refrigerant to protect the unit and maintain efficiency.
Do you need to oil a new AC compressor?
Each component being removed and replaced with a new component has a oil requirement. So the ac system requires a oil amount to coat the new component.
Do four seasons AC compressors come with oil?
New compressors include the required R12/R134A/1234yf O-rings/sealing washers to install the compressor, direct fit connectors for ease of installation and to help eliminate splicing, and are pre-charged with 3 ounces of PAG oil for R134a or R1234yf applications.
How much oil does a new AC compressor come with?
Does the new compressor contain oil? 300 cc (10 oz) Many compressors builders list the oil amount on the label, but not all. Some may show it on the under hood label.
PDF
What does an AC compressor kit come with?
An AC compressor kit typically includes a new compressor with a clutch, a drier/accumulator, an expansion valve or orifice tube, compressor oil, and all necessary O-ring seals and gaskets. Some kits may also include other components like a condenser, but these are the most common parts included to ensure a complete and successful AC repair.
Core components in a kit
- Compressor and clutch: The central pump of the AC system, powered by the engine's drive belt.
- Drier/Accumulator: A filter that removes moisture and debris from the refrigerant.
- Expansion valve or orifice tube: Controls the pressure and flow of the refrigerant into the evaporator.
- Compressor oil: Lubricates the compressor and other moving parts; some kits may require draining and replacing the shipping oil.
- O-rings and gaskets: Sealing components for all connections in the system.
This video shows what is inside an AC compressor kit: 57sBrilliant Auto CareYouTube · Jul 1, 2024
Additional components sometimes included
- Condenser: A component located near the radiator that cools the hot refrigerant.
- Hoses: Some comprehensive kits might include replacement hoses.
- System treatment: Some kits include additional products to help clean and treat the system.
