A/C broke, possible to replace system?

[06M3]

So the A/C recently went out on my 06 Mazda3 (during 95 degree 100% humidity heat no less...) and I've been considering a few options. I'm 90% sure the problem is with the magnetic clutch assembly (the compressor doesn't engage the belt when I turn on AC however the fuses and electronics work, followed the diagnostic manual).

Initially I was considering buying a clutch (since the compressor itself seems to be fine) and replacing it, or spending some more $$ and getting things done right at the dealership, but then I had another idea. Maybe I could replace the A/C system with the more advanced "automatic" one that comes on the nicer models? Is this even possible? I know there are sensors and things but that seems like it could be done DIY... It would be cool to have the automated temperature system since I always go back and forth between on and off anyways.

Thoughts?

 

[philrab]

In short, yes it's theoretically possible to retrofit the Auto climate control. A member on another board I'm on is entertaining the idea. The issue is, as best we can tell, the hard parts of the AC system are all the same and it's only the control unit and a few sensors that are different (fortunately, it seams as though the body harness is prewired for both systems.) Either way, you need to fix what you have first.

You could look into a local pick a part/junkyard and just get a whole compressor. They, you'll need a gear puller (borrow from Autozone) to remove the clutch assembly. I'd go that route and do it yourself before I'd pay labor at a stealership.