2013 Passat TDI / expansion valve & receiver dryer

Having problem with a/c not cooling. Dealer said my expansion valve and receiver dryer needed to be changed. Cost is $1300.00. How difficult is it to replace these parts and where are they located.

special equipment is required to service AC systems, best left to pros IMHO.

Try to find an independent shop. If your lucky the compressor is OK.

Uh, no . . . if you have an AC vacuum pump and a means to weigh charge, this is a pretty simple diy on most cars. Compressors are a bit more work, but also doable. The hardest part is usually getting to stuff . . . If expansion valve croaked, compressor should be fine, and receiver/dryer is just preventative, since the system has been open.