MK6 103TDi '09 air con compressor fail

[supermotojm]

Hi guys

At my service last year I was told the reason my air con was not working was due to the compressor needing to be changed (at a very high price).
With not much cash to spare I haven't done the work and just went through summer and some of winter without air con working.
To be sure this is right diagnostic I wanted to post on the forum to get your feedback:
- when car is turned on, it'll take 10 minutes for the air to have a little bit of coolness in it (by no way is this aircon) - in fact in really hot weather the air coming out after 10 minutes could be 24 to 25deg.
- if it rains, the whole front will fog up instantly if I switch the aircon / demister on - only way to demist the front window is with open driver window, which can be handy when it rains

If it is the compressor I am keen to avoid the VW network and buy the part myself and get a mechanic to replace it for me.
1. I spoke to JM Auto Air in Sydney (as recommended on this forum) and his part is $400, and he tells me it is the same as Golf MK5 - can you confirm this?
2. I have found the part on Sanden website in the US and it seems to be part PXE16 or 4573U - some reseller here in OZ has quoted me $835 for a Sanden compressor - know of any other supplier?
3. Can you recommend a reputable air con specialist in Sydney?

Thanks guys.

I have to say that after my master cylinder gave in 2 days after 3 year warranty ended (and just after a service the week prior), and VW only covering 70% of work, I thought that would be the end of my issues. Cannot believe a compressor would fail with under 5 years usage. Just poor workmanship.
Do you think it is worth my while trying my luck with VW?

[Umai Naa!!]

Pretty common failure on these.

The Sanden compressors are known for a short life-span. I wouldn't put it down to workmanship, they're just a garbage compressor. The genuine VW replacements were either Valeo or Denso.

Definitely try your luck with VW. Worst case at this point is you'll wear the cost of the diagnostic time (yes, it'll have to be re-diagnosed for the purposes of a warranty claim).

[supermotojm]

Thanks mate
Ok will book it in, you're right only thing I'll be losing is diagnostic fee / time. I'll post back results. Fingers crossed they cover this.

[harlie]

Sounds to me like the RCV valve (in the bottom of the AC compressor) is in need of replacement. They are about $40 from OS and can be changed once the refrigerant has been drained. Common fix for the Sanden PXE16 compressors, the dealers and AC shops will want to fit a new compressor. Had the same symptons with mine - easy fix.