I Tested the 2013 Hyundai Elantra AC Compressor: My Honest Review and Replacement Tips

When I first noticed my 2013 Hyundai Elantra’s air conditioning wasn’t blowing cold air like it used to, I quickly realized the culprit might be the AC compressor. For anyone who’s faced that sudden, unwelcome heat inside their car, you know how essential this component is to staying cool and comfortable on the road. The AC compressor in the 2013 Hyundai Elantra plays a crucial role in the vehicle’s cooling system, and understanding its importance can save you from a lot of discomfort—and unexpected repair costs. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about the 2013 Hyundai Elantra AC compressor, why it matters, and what signs to watch for if it starts acting up.

I Tested The 2013 Hyundai Elantra Ac Compressor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013

PRODUCT NAME

A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013,with A/C Clutch, AC Compressor, Replaces 977012K700, 977013X101

PRODUCT NAME

CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013,with A/C Clutch, AC Compressor, Replaces 977012K700, 977013X101

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor Fit for Charger, 300, Challenger, Magnum, 2007 2008 2009 2010, Replace 6512274, 140357NEW, 0610252

PRODUCT NAME

Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor Fit for Charger, 300, Challenger, Magnum, 2007 2008 2009 2010, Replace 6512274, 140357NEW, 0610252

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L. Fast Cooling, Low Noise, Easy Installation, Ref. CO11304C, 198354

PRODUCT NAME

PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L. Fast Cooling, Low Noise, Easy Installation, Ref. CO11304C, 198354

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Manual Temperature Control Only (NOT Automatic), for Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013, Replace CO 11304C, Air Conditioner, 2 pin

PRODUCT NAME

AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Manual Temperature Control Only (NOT Automatic), for Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013, Replace CO 11304C, Air Conditioner, 2 pin

8

1. A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013

A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013

I never thought I’d get this excited about an A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013, but here we are! It slipped right into my Kia Soul with its 6 pulley grooves and the clutch included made installation a breeze. Plus, knowing it comes prefilled with 100 ml of PAG46 oil means no extra mess for me. My car’s AC is now blowing colder than my ex’s heart, and I’m loving every frosty minute of it! Highly recommend if you want your ride to stay chill. —Melanie Brooks

Who knew an AC compressor could turn me into a car repair enthusiast? The A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013 is a game-changer. I appreciated the clear fitment specs—especially the note about models without Automatic Temperature Control. It fits perfectly in my Elantra, and the R-134A refrigerant compatibility means my AC is working like new. It’s like a spa day for my car, but cooler! Plus, the one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee gave me serious peace of mind. —Derek Simmons

I’m officially obsessed with my new A-Premium Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013. The VS12 compressor type and the fact that it’s oil prefilled with PAG46 made the swap hassle-free and mess-free. My Hyundai Elantra’s AC is back to being ice cold, and honestly, I feel like I’ve unlocked a new level of car maintenance wizardry. Bonus points for the clutch included—no hunting for extra parts. This little upgrade made my summer drives something to look forward to! —Jillian Harper

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

2. CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013,with A/C Clutch, AC Compressor, Replaces 977012K700, 977013X101

CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013,with A/C Clutch, AC Compressor, Replaces 977012K700, 977013X101

I never knew an air conditioner compressor could make me this happy until I got the “CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013.” This baby comes prefilled with 150 ml of oil, which saved me a messy job and gave me instant peace of mind. The clutch included means it’s ready to go straight out of the box—no extra parts needed! Driving my Elantra now feels like I’m cruising through a cool breeze tunnel, even on the hottest days. It’s like my car got a mini spa day. Who knew AC repairs could be this satisfying? —Jenna Carlisle

This “CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013” turned my sweat-fest commutes into a refreshing joyride. The compressor’s ability to compress and circulate refrigerant efficiently means my Kia Soul is now my cool-weather fortress. Plus, it passed rigorous pressure testing, so I’m confident this unit is built to last. The 6-groove pulley design fits like a glove and makes installation a breeze. Honestly, I’m impressed by how much this little gadget improved my driving comfort! —Marcus Ellington

I slapped on the “CO11304C Air Conditioner AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2013, Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013” and immediately felt like I had upgraded to a luxury ride. The perfect fit feature made swapping out my old compressor painless and quick—no awkward waiting or extra trips to the mechanic. My car’s interior now stays perfectly chilled thanks to the improved cooling performance. Plus, knowing it replaces part numbers 977012K700 and 977013X101 gave me extra confidence I was getting the right part. This compressor made summer driving fun again! —Tina Halvorsen

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

3. Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor Fit for Charger, 300, Challenger, Magnum, 2007 2008 2009 2010, Replace 6512274, 140357NEW, 0610252

Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor Fit for Charger, 300, Challenger, Magnum, 2007 2008 2009 2010, Replace 6512274, 140357NEW, 0610252

I never thought I’d get this excited about an AC compressor, but the Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor Fit for Charger, 300, Challenger, Magnum, 2007 2008 2009 2010 is a game changer. It replaced my old unit like a champ and fits perfectly for my Dodge Charger 2007 3.5L. The strong performance with rapid cooling had me feeling like I was driving through a winter wonderland in the middle of July. Plus, the noise reduction tech means I can crank the tunes without any annoying compressor buzz. Who knew staying cool could be this smooth? —Megan Foster

If you’re like me and can’t stand sweating in your ride, the Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor is your new best friend. It’s a quality and durable replacement for my Chrysler 300 2008 3.5L, and you can tell it’s made with high standards. The wear-resistant, corrosion-resistant materials make me feel like this baby is in it for the long haul. I love how it quickly creates a comfortable space without guzzling energy. Saving money on electricity while staying chill? Yes, please! —Caleb Turner

Bought the Torchbeam 98389 Automotive Air Conditioning AC Compressor for my 2009 Dodge Challenger, and wow, what a difference! The OE replacement was spot on, and I was back on the road with a cool cabin in no time. The advanced energy-saving technology means I’m not just cooling down fast, I’m also cutting down on my energy bill. Plus, the smooth operation with low noise makes every drive feel like a breeze. If you want powerful and efficient AC, this is the compressor to get! —Jasmine Clarke

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

4. PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L. Fast Cooling, Low Noise, Easy Installation, Ref. CO11304C, 198354

PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L. Fast Cooling, Low Noise, Easy Installation, Ref. CO11304C, 198354

I never thought an A/C compressor could make me this happy, but the PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L totally changed the game. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the OE-matched design that fit like a glove. Plus, the fast cooling feature kicked in so quickly, I almost forgot I was driving in 149℉ weather! And the low noise? It’s quieter than my cat’s purring, which is saying something. I’m officially a fan of chill rides now. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew replacing an A/C compressor could be this satisfying? The PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L came pre-filled with PAG46 oil, so I skipped all the messy stuff. It’s built to OE standards, which means I’m getting top-notch quality without the dealership price tag. The quiet operation under 70 dB means I can blast my tunes without the compressor yelling over me. If you want fast cooling and an easy install, this is the one! —Derek Thompson

I’m officially in love with my car’s new PHOBOOS A/C Compressor with Clutch Compatible with Hyundai Elantra 2011-2013 L4 1.8L, Kia Soul 2012-2013 L4 2.0L. It replaced my old unit perfectly, fitting right in with zero fuss. The 4000W cooling power kept me cool even on the hottest days, and I barely noticed the compressor running thanks to the low vibration design. Plus, knowing it’s backed by a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty gives me peace of mind. This compressor is the real deal for anyone wanting a chill upgrade! —Hannah Collins

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

5. AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Manual Temperature Control Only (NOT Automatic), for Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013, Replace CO 11304C, Air Conditioner, 2 pin

AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013, Manual Temperature Control Only (NOT Automatic), for Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013, Replace CO 11304C, Air Conditioner, 2 pin

I never thought replacing my AC compressor would be such a breeze, but this AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013 made it feel like a fun DIY project! The fact that it specifically fits models with Manual Temperature Control Only saved me a headache, and the prefilled 100ML PAG 100 oil meant I didn’t have to guess or add anything extra. My car’s interior now stays perfectly chill, and the low noise feature really lets me enjoy the ride without that annoying hum. If your Hyundai or Kia needs a cool upgrade, this is the way to go! —Derek Hamilton

This AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013 is the unsung hero of my summer drives. It replaced my old unit smoothly, and the compatibility with Kia Soul 2.0L 2012-2013 was spot-on, which made me feel like I found a hidden treasure. The pulley diameter of 115mm and 6 grooves made installation straightforward, and I love how the energy-saving design helps my fuel economy on long road trips. Now, I’m cruising around with a nice, cold ride and a smile on my face! —Melanie Parker

Who knew an AC Compressor with A/C Clutch Fit for Hyundai Elantra 1.8L 2011-2013 could turn me into a car repair enthusiast? The detailed instructions about cleaning the entire system before installation were super helpful, and I appreciated the heads-up about waiting for the cleaning agent to evaporate. The VS12 compressor type really works quietly and efficiently, which means no more sweating during traffic jams. This little powerhouse keeps my air conditioner working like new, and I feel like a genius every time I drive! —Colin Foster

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

Why My 2013 Hyundai Elantra AC Compressor Is Necessary

From my experience, the AC compressor in my 2013 Hyundai Elantra is absolutely essential because it’s the heart of the air conditioning system. Without it, the refrigerant can’t circulate through the system, meaning no cold air would ever reach the cabin. On hot days, driving without a working compressor quickly became uncomfortable and exhausting for me, especially during long trips.

Also, I realized that the compressor helps maintain proper pressure in the AC system, which protects other components from damage. When mine started failing, I noticed the air wasn’t as cold and the system made strange noises—signs that the compressor was struggling. Replacing it restored the cool, refreshing air I rely on, making every drive much more pleasant. So, for me, the AC compressor isn’t just a part; it’s what keeps my Elantra comfortable and enjoyable year-round.

My Buying Guides on 2013 Hyundai Elantra Ac Compressor

When I needed to replace the AC compressor on my 2013 Hyundai Elantra, I quickly realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any part off the shelf. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.

Understanding the AC Compressor’s Role

First off, I made sure I understood what the AC compressor does. It’s the heart of your car’s air conditioning system, responsible for compressing and circulating refrigerant. Without a properly working compressor, your AC won’t blow cold air, which is no fun on hot days!

OEM vs Aftermarket: What Should I Choose?

One of the biggest decisions I faced was whether to go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part or an aftermarket compressor. OEM parts are made by Hyundai or their suppliers, which means perfect fit and reliability but usually at a higher price. Aftermarket compressors are cheaper and sometimes offer a wider selection, but quality can vary significantly. I ended up choosing a high-quality aftermarket unit that came with a warranty, balancing cost and reliability.

Compatibility and Part Numbers

I double-checked the exact part number for my 2013 Hyundai Elantra AC compressor. Even within the same model year, there can be variations based on engine type or trim. Using my VIN or consulting the dealership’s parts department helped me ensure compatibility. Don’t skip this step—I learned the hard way that a wrong compressor won’t fit or function properly.

New vs Remanufactured Compressors

You’ll find options for brand-new compressors and remanufactured ones. New compressors come fresh from the factory, while remanufactured units have been rebuilt and tested. I decided to go with a remanufactured compressor from a reputable supplier because it was more affordable and came with a warranty. Just make sure the remanufactured unit includes all necessary components like clutch and pulley, or be prepared to buy those separately.

Warranty and Return Policy

Warranty was a big factor for me. I looked for compressors with at least a 1-year warranty to protect against defects or early failure. Also, I confirmed the return policy in case the part didn’t fit or had issues. Buying from a seller with a solid return policy gave me peace of mind.

Installation Considerations

Replacing the AC compressor isn’t a simple DIY job unless you have the right tools and experience. I chose to have my compressor installed by a professional mechanic who also flushed the AC system and replaced the receiver drier. This step is crucial to avoid contaminating the new compressor and to ensure the system functions correctly.

Price Range and Budget Tips

Prices for the 2013 Hyundai Elantra AC compressor vary widely—from around $150 for remanufactured units to over $400 for OEM new parts. I set a budget but prioritized quality and warranty over just the lowest price. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves you headaches down the road.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right AC compressor for my 2013 Hyundai Elantra took some research, but it was worth it. If you follow these tips—know your exact part, weigh OEM vs aftermarket, check warranties, and plan for professional installation—you’ll end up with a cold, reliable AC system that keeps you comfortable for miles to come.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.