2015 Forester needs a new AC compressor, brands?

King_Mud

Joined: Sep 2008

Posts: 18193

EE: 100% (180)

OK, USA

Posted: 8/24/2026 5:09:13 PM EDT

So I'm not really looking forward to spending over $800 on an OEM compressor. Are there any aftermarket brands worth anything? I usually get my parts from a dealer a little over an hour away that's very competitive online and I'm still looking at $835 for just the compressor while I'm finding multiple aftermarket kits for less than half of that. Subaru's less than stellar AC compressor rep doesn't make me want to spend the money on OEM for this particular item.

Dynamo

Member

Joined: Oct 2009

Posts: 14908

EE: 0% (0)

TX, USA

Posted: 8/24/2026 7:14:20 PM EDT

[#1]

Denso is my goto brand if available.

PhuzzyGnu

Caveat Lector

Joined: Feb 2005

Posts: 21546

EE: 0% (0)

TX, USA

Posted: 8/24/2026 7:29:37 PM EDT

[Last Edit: PhuzzyGnu][Edited] [#2]

Denso. And get a clutch while you're at it.

The UAC and Four Seasons compressors you get at AutoZone or Rock Auto are fine but Denso more better.

And Denso was probably the OEM supplier.

K1rodeoboater

Joined: Jan 2007

Posts: 27266

EE: 100% (21)

NC, USA

Posted: 9/2/2026 12:12:36 AM EDT

[#3]

You sure the compressor is out and its not just a worn clutch? That happened in our 2014, I removed a shim and it has been working fine since. Will end up replacing the clutch on it eventually but its a much cheaper part....but no shop will do it for you.

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2015 Forester needs a new AC compressor, brands?

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2015 Forester needs a new AC compressor, brands?

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2015 Forester needs a new AC compressor, brands?