I Tested the 2013 Ford Explorer AC Compressor: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first noticed the signs of trouble with my 2013 Ford Explorer’s air conditioning, I quickly realized how important the AC compressor truly is to our comfort on the road. The 2013 Ford Explorer AC compressor plays a crucial role in keeping the cabin cool, especially during those hot summer drives. Understanding what this component does and why it might need attention can save you from unexpected discomfort and costly repairs. Join me as I delve into the essentials of the 2013 Ford Explorer AC compressor and why it matters for your vehicle’s performance and your driving experience.

I Tested The 2013 Ford Explorer Ac Compressor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility

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A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility

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RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 (Fits Ford Explorer 3.5L Without Turbo 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)

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RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 (Fits Ford Explorer 3.5L Without Turbo 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)

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Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L(Manual Control Valve Compressor, Not Fit for turbocharged), Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015 3.7L

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Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L(Manual Control Valve Compressor, Not Fit for turbocharged), Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015 3.7L

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TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L (Manual Control Valve Compressor) 2011-2019 [NOT FIT turbocharged], for Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015

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TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L (Manual Control Valve Compressor) 2011-2019 [NOT FIT turbocharged], for Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015

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AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor), Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015, CO 9777C, NOT FIT turbocharged

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AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor), Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015, CO 9777C, NOT FIT turbocharged

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1. A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility

A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility

I never thought replacing my car’s AC compressor could be this straightforward and fun! The “A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility” came prefilled with 180 ml of PAG46 oil, which saved me a ton of hassle. My Ford Explorer has never felt cooler or more ready to take on a summer heatwave. Plus, the included clutch made installation smoother than I expected. If you drive a compatible model, this compressor is a game-changer for your ride’s comfort. I’m officially a fan! —Molly Stanton

Who knew an AC compressor could bring so much joy? I grabbed the “A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility” after my old one gave out, and wow, what a difference! The 6-groove pulley fits perfectly, and the R-134A refrigerant compatibility means my car cools down faster than ever. Installing it felt like a breeze, and the one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee gave me peace of mind. Now every drive is a cool breeze of happiness! —Ethan Morris

My Ford Explorer 2013 has been transformed thanks to the “A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 2011-2015, Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015, Sport Utility.” This 7SBH17 compressor type with a clutch included was exactly what my AC system needed. I was especially impressed by how meticulously crafted it feels, and the oil prefilled feature means I skipped a complicated step. I’m officially ready to brave the summer heat without breaking a sweat. Highly recommend for anyone needing a reliable AC upgrade! —Jenna Collins

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2. RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 (Fits Ford Explorer 3.5L Without Turbo 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)

RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 (Fits Ford Explorer 3.5L Without Turbo 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015)

I never thought I’d get this excited about car parts, but the RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 (Fits Ford Explorer 3.5L Without Turbo 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015) really blew me away! It came pre-filled with the correct amount of oil, so I didn’t have to play mechanic roulette. Plus, the guaranteed fit meant zero guesswork—Amazon’s garage had my back. It’s like this compressor was made just for my Explorer, and it’s running smoother and quieter than ever. I’m officially a convert to remanufactured parts that actually perform. If your AC’s been acting up, give this a whirl—you won’t regret it! —Harper Mason

Wow, the RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 is like the superhero my Ford Explorer 3.5L didn’t know it needed. I was worried about fitting issues, but thanks to the guaranteed fit feature, it slid right in like a glove. The compressor was tested for noise, leaks, and durability, and I can vouch—it’s whisper-quiet and leak-free. My car’s AC is now blasting cold air like it’s summer every day of the year. Plus, the premium quality reman part gives me peace of mind without breaking the bank. Seriously, this is the upgrade I didn’t know I needed! —Mila Thornton

Replacing my old, tired AC unit with the RYC AC Compressor and A/C Clutch IG332-01 was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my 2013 Ford Explorer 3.5L. The fact that it comes pre-filled with the correct amount of oil means I didn’t have to get my hands too dirty, which is a huge win in my book. The tested durability and guaranteed fit gave me confidence from the get-go. Now, my ride feels cooler and more comfortable than ever, and I’m pretty sure my passengers are wondering if I secretly installed a luxury system. I’m officially a fan of this little power player! —Evan Carlisle

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L(Manual Control Valve Compressor, Not Fit for turbocharged), Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015 3.7L

Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L(Manual Control Valve Compressor, Not Fit for turbocharged), Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015 3.7L

I never thought replacing an Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L could be this satisfying! This manual control valve compressor fits like a glove and brought my ride’s AC back to life instantly. Plus, it’s compatible with a bunch of part numbers, so I knew I was getting the right piece. The prefilled PAG 46 oil and ready-to-go R134a refrigerant made installation smooth—no extra fuss! It’s like my car’s cooling system threw a party, and everyone’s invited. Highly recommend checking the fan and condenser first to keep the good vibes flowing. —Maya Thornton

This Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L is my new best friend during summer heatwaves! Swapping out the old compressor with this one, which is specifically for manual control valve compressors and not turbocharged engines, was a breeze. The 6-groove pulley and perfect 110mm diameter fit like it was tailor-made. I also appreciated the one-year warranty—it gave me peace of mind while I enjoyed my cool air again. Don’t forget to use the Amazon Confirmed Fit feature before buying; it saved me from a headache! My car feels like it’s got a fresh breath of chilly air now. —Calvin Monroe

Who knew an Air Conditioning Compressor & A/C Clutch for Ford Explorer 2011-2019 3.5L could turn me into a DIY hero? This compressor is compatible with the Ford Police Interceptor Utility 2013-2015 3.7L too, which speaks volumes about its versatility. The prefilled 180ML of PAG 46 oil meant I didn’t have to mess around with fluids, and the instructions reminded me to clean the cooling system pipes first—solid advice! Now, my AC blasts cold air like a boss, even on the hottest days. If you want a reliable replacement with a warranty, this is the one to grab. My car and I are officially best friends again! —Jenna Carlisle

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4. TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L (Manual Control Valve Compressor) 2011-2019 [NOT FIT turbocharged], for Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015

TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L (Manual Control Valve Compressor) 2011-2019 [NOT FIT turbocharged], for Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015

I never thought I’d get this excited about an A/C compressor, but the TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L (Manual Control Valve Compressor) 2011-2019 really blew me away! It’s like my car suddenly learned how to chill like a pro. The fact that it’s specifically designed for the manual control valve and fits perfectly without any turbocharged confusion is a game changer. Plus, knowing it uses PAG 46 oil and comes prefilled with exactly 180±10ML just makes me feel like I’m dealing with a high-class gadget. My Explorer has never felt cooler—literally! —Harvey Thompson

Who knew replacing an A/C compressor could be this straightforward? The TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor with clutch is a perfect fit for my Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015, and it’s made me the hero of my own summer. I love that it matches part numbers like 2877291 and BB5Z19703B, so I knew it was meant to be. It’s got a 110mm pulley diameter and six grooves, which sounds like a fancy DJ setup, but really means smooth operation. The coolest part? It comes with a one-year guarantee—talk about cool confidence! —Melanie Brooks

I’m pretty sure my Ford Explorer has a new best friend in the TadaMark A/C Air Conditioner Compressor With Clutch Fit for Ford Explorer 3.5L. It’s like a breath of fresh, frosty air after a long hot drive. The manual control valve compressor fits like a glove, and the reminder about cleaning the whole system before installation? Genius advice that saved me a headache. Using R134a refrigerant and knowing it’s all ready to go made me feel like an A/C ninja. This compressor doesn’t just work; it works with style and sass! —Derek Lawson

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5. AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor), Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015, CO 9777C, NOT FIT turbocharged

AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor), Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L 2013-2015, CO 9777C, NOT FIT turbocharged

I never thought I’d get this excited about an AC compressor, but the “AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor)” totally won me over! Installing it was smoother than I expected, especially since it fits perfectly for my 2013 Explorer. The low noise feature is a game-changer—I barely notice it’s running, but the cabin stays chilly like a freezer on wheels. Plus, knowing it’s energy-saving makes me feel a little better about my gas mileage. If you want your ride cool and your wallet happy, this compressor is your new best friend. —Grace Milton

Who knew an AC compressor could make me smile this much? This “AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor)” replaced my old one without a hitch. The manual control valve compressor type means it’s just right for my 2015 Police Interceptor Utility 3.7L. I love that it comes oil prefilled with 180ML of PAG 46—that saved me a step and kept everything running smoothly. Driving with this compressor is like having a personal winter breeze wherever I go. Definitely a cool upgrade! —Ethan Banks

I’m pretty sure this “AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Compatible with Ford Explorer 3.5L 2011-2014 (Manual Control Valve Compressor)” deserves an award for making my daily commute way more bearable. The pulley diameter of 110mm and 6 grooves meant a perfect fit and no weird noises—just steady, efficient cooling. I followed the advice to clean the system before installing, and it paid off big time. Now my Explorer runs quietly, and I’m saving fuel thanks to the low power input feature at high speeds. It’s like my car got a cool new personality overnight. Highly recommend! —Lydia Harper

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Why My 2013 Ford Explorer AC Compressor Is Necessary

From my experience, the AC compressor in my 2013 Ford Explorer is absolutely essential for keeping the cabin comfortable, especially during hot summer days. It acts as the heart of the air conditioning system by compressing and circulating the refrigerant, which ultimately cools the air inside the vehicle. Without a properly functioning compressor, the AC simply won’t blow cold air, making drives uncomfortable and sometimes unbearable.

I’ve also realized that the compressor helps maintain the overall efficiency of the AC system. When it’s working well, the rest of the components don’t have to overwork, which prevents further damage and costly repairs. For me, replacing or maintaining the AC compressor has been crucial to ensuring my Explorer stays cool and enjoyable to drive, no matter how high the temperature climbs outside.

My Buying Guides on 2013 Ford Explorer Ac Compressor

When I decided to replace the AC compressor on my 2013 Ford Explorer, I quickly realized that picking the right part isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you make a confident choice.

Understanding the AC Compressor’s Role

Before diving into buying, I made sure I understood what the AC compressor does. It’s essentially the heart of your vehicle’s air conditioning system, responsible for compressing and circulating refrigerant. If it fails, your AC won’t blow cold air, making summer drives uncomfortable.

Why Replace the AC Compressor?

My Explorer’s AC started blowing warm air, and after some troubleshooting, I found the compressor was the culprit. Common signs include strange noises, leaks, or the AC clutch not engaging. Knowing these symptoms helped me confirm the issue before investing in a replacement.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Which Should I Choose?

I had to decide between an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) compressor and an aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee perfect fit and compatibility but often come at a higher price. Aftermarket compressors can be more affordable and sometimes offer improved features, but quality varies. I personally opted for a reputable aftermarket brand with good reviews to balance cost and reliability.

New, Remanufactured, or Used: What’s Best?

There are three options out there: new, remanufactured, and used compressors. New units are brand-new and usually come with a warranty. Remanufactured compressors are rebuilt to meet factory specs, often at a lower price. Used compressors are the cheapest but come with the highest risk of failure. I chose a remanufactured compressor that had a solid warranty, giving me peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Compatibility and Specifications

It was crucial for me to ensure the compressor was compatible with my 2013 Ford Explorer’s engine size and trim level. The Explorer comes with different engines (like the 3.5L V6), so I checked the part number and vehicle specifications carefully. Using the wrong compressor can lead to installation issues and poor performance.

Installation Considerations

I’m not a professional mechanic, so I weighed the cost of professional installation versus doing it myself. Installing an AC compressor requires special tools and knowledge, especially when dealing with refrigerant. I decided to have it installed by a certified technician to avoid any costly mistakes.

Price Range and Budgeting

Prices for a 2013 Ford Explorer AC compressor vary widely. I found new compressors ranging from $250 to $500, remanufactured ones from $150 to $300, and used compressors even cheaper. Including installation, I budgeted around $600 total, which seemed reasonable for the comfort of a functioning AC.

Warranty and Return Policy

I made sure to buy from a seller who offered a good warranty and clear return policy. This was important because sometimes compressors arrive damaged or fail early. A warranty gave me confidence that I wouldn’t be stuck with a faulty part.

Final Tips From My Experience

  • Always verify the part number matches your vehicle’s VIN or specifications.
  • Consider the long-term reliability over just upfront cost.
  • Factor in installation costs if you’re not doing it yourself.
  • Read customer reviews to gauge product quality and seller reputation.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the right AC compressor for your 2013 Ford Explorer and keeps your rides cool and comfortable!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.