On average, car AC repair costs run between about $430 and $520. However, if you need a new compressor, you can expect to spend $1,300 to $2,500 or more. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common car AC repairs and their average cost.
You'll want to consider factors like how old your AC system is, how often repairs were needed in the past and how much they cost, and the system's overall performance. If your AC system is old and repairs are becoming more frequent and costly, replacement might be the most economical and effective solution.
Fixing the AC in a car can cost anywhere from $100 to $2000 or more, depending on the issue. Simple fixes like recharging refrigerant might be on the lower end, while more complex repairs like replacing the compressor could be more expensive. Hope it will help you!
At your local AutoZone store, find all of the parts and fluids you need to take care of your car including AC refrigerant kits. If you decide that it's too big a job to tackle on your own, let AutoZone help you find qualified professional mechanics through our Shop Referral Program.
Your vehicle's air-conditioning not working is likely caused by a failing compressor or a freon leak. While these are the most obvious reasons for your air-conditioning not working inside your vehicle, it might be anything as simple as a bad belt or a dirty cabin air filter.
If you've noticed that your car's AC system isn't as cool as it once was, start by troubleshooting issues you can take care of at home. Replace the air filters, clean the ducts and recharge the system. After that, if you're still having problems with the AC, bring your car to a mechanic.
One of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs a Freon recharge is that your vehicle will be blowing warm air, even after your vehicle has been running for some time. If your refrigerant gets too low, there will simply not be enough “coolant” to cool the air as it is passed through your evaporator coil.
These can be costly to fix due to being challenging to get to and expensive to purchase. Refrigerant recovery is time-consuming, typically requiring three hours or more to service. All these things make servicing an automotive air conditioner something that is beyond the skill level of the average car owner.
Warm Air from the Vents
If the compressor is fine, it will push cold air into the cabin of your vehicle. If you begin to notice warm or even hot air coming out of the vents, this is a clear indication that the compressor is not functioning properly.
In many cases, when the A/C malfunctions it is considered normal wear-and-tear and not covered by auto insurance policies. However, there are certain situations in which insurance coverage may be available for air conditioning damage. This coverage option is available when you buy a new car.
Various issues can affect an air conditioning unit, requiring an HVAC professional to make repairs. Overall, the average cost to fix AC units is between $150 and $600. Minor air conditioning unit repair issues will be on the lower end of this spectrum, like thermostat replacement with a low-end AC thermostat model.
Driving with a broken A/C compressor isn't ideal and can become unsafe if ignored. Every mechanism within your car is essential to your vehicle's overall efficacy and safety.
Your car's A/C system may stop working altogether, the temperature inside the car might suddenly change, there might be a strange smell coming from the vents, or you may hear strange noises coming from the cabin while you're driving. These problems may mean that your A/C needs to be replaced or repaired.
The average costs for common A/C car repair services are: A/C Repair – $384 to $445. A/C Compressor Replacement – $1,546 to $1,705. A/C Recharge – $239 to $281.
Many HVAC technicians use the "5,000 rule" when making this decision. Simply multiply the age of the system by the repair cost. If it's under $5,000, consider a repair; if it's over $5,000, it's probably better off buying a new unit.
Car AC Evaporator Issues
A leak is the most common cause of an evaporator failure. Debris such as leaves can be drawn into the evaporator by exterior air intake vents, which can cause corrosion, or a weld or seam may fail.
A compressor should last about 10 to 15 years but may have a reduced lifespan if you use your air conditioning system frequently. If your air compressor is going bad, you need to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop to have it replaced.
Your air conditioner compressor is making unusual noises: If your compressor is making a loud rattling, grinding, or clicking noise, this could be an indication that a piece has broken inside it. If it is more of a grinding noise, the compressor bearings might need to be replaced.
On average, replacing a car AC compressor can range from $500 to $1000, making it a significant investment for many drivers. It's important to compare prices from different auto shops to find the most competitive rates for this essential repair.
A typical AC repair service usually lasts three to four hours. However, it may take longer if the damage seems severe or if a particular AC component needs to be replaced. During the service, the mechanic has to do several procedures, such as: Removing the residual gas from the AC system.
The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor. Today, our AC Techs discuss everything you need to know about air compressors and why they are so expensive to repair!
An AC compressor is not a maintenance part which you are expected to regularly replace on some interval. The compressor only needs to be replaced if it fails. They can last the lifetime of the car, but generally a compressor's life span is around 10-12 years and 150 to 200K miles.
An AC leak will lead to warmer air from your vents over time. In most cases this can be fixed with a proven stop leak additive to seal up any leaks. When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone.
The cost of recharging your car's AC can vary based on whether you choose a DIY approach or professional service. A professional AC recharge typically ranges from $150 to $300. This cost reflects the expertise required and the equipment used to ensure a proper recharge.
Freon is contained within your vehicle's AC system, as in completely confined within, so Freon's loss isn't through consumption but through leaks that eventually develop within hoses and connections.