How Much Does it Cost to Fix AC in Car? If your car’s air conditioning system isn’t as cool as it should be, it’s time to act before you get too hot. How much does it cost to repair a car’s air conditioning? The cost of repairs is affected by a variety of factors.
This tutorial covers the various components of repairing the AC system as well as the associated costs. We also check for symptoms that your air conditioner needs to be repaired. Finally, we provide you with the information you need to ensure that your air conditioning is always operating at peak efficiency.
How Much Does it Cost to Fix AC in Car?
The cost of repairing a car’s air conditioning system ranges between $10 to $1,000. If you only need to recharge the refrigerant and can do the labour yourself, you could pay as little as $10. However, if components need to be replaced or you require the services of a skilled technician, you might easily spend $1,000 or more. How Much Does it Cost to Fix AC in Car?
1. AC System Leak
The system may be just running out of refrigerant. This is the simplest and cheapest problem to fix. If you have the equipment and knowledge to replenish the system, a can of Freon can be purchased for $10 or less (Even if we strongly recommend a professional mechanic with the right tools to fill it to avoid issues).
However, if the refrigerant level remains low, a leak may be present. Refrigerant should not leak out more than 1 ounce per year in a closed system. The hoses and clamps will likely wear and break as they age. To locate the source of the leak, apply a specific UV dye. This dye is poured into the system, and you use the given special glasses to look for leaks.
Before you may recharge the system, you must repair any leaks you discover. If the leak is caused by an O-ring, you will spend very little money. Some parts, on the other hand, will cost $500 or more to repair. In any case, you don’t want a leak to continue because it’s harmful to the environment and might cause compressor damage.
2. Clogged Cabin Filter
You may not associate the cabin air filter with the temperature in the car, but it is crucial to consider. If the air becomes warmer, the filter may become blocked. A clogged filter prevents enough airflow across the system. You may avoid blocked filters by changing them regularly. Most manufacturers recommend that it be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Again, this is a low-cost modification that can be completed in your garage with little tools. Your new cabin filter could cost between $10 and $25. It should simply take you a few minutes to remove the blocked filter and replace it. If you can’t accomplish it on your own, you may need to hire someone for an hour of labour.
3. Faulty AC Compressor
Numerous mechanical elements can fail, but the air conditioning compressor is the most common to fail. There will be no cool air coming from the vents if the compressor fails. When the system is turned on, it can also emit strange noises.
Many people lack the knowledge required to work on the compressor. It is difficult to replace and will cost a lot of money. The compressor should cost between $100 and $250, while labour should cost between $250 and $750.
4. Malfunctioning Mechanical Parts
The air conditioning system is made up of numerous other components. While the compressor is the most likely to fail, one of the others must be overlooked. The condenser and evaporator may also fail. Furthermore, the blower motor may fail, resulting in a shortage of flow in the cabin.
When a mechanical failure occurs, the part must be changed using professional tools, and the system must be recharged. When everything is said and done, depending on the sort of automobile you drive and the part that needs to be replaced, you may easily spend $1,000 or more.
How Long Does Car Air Conditioning System Work?
When driving a car, you want to know how long the parts will last. You already know how frequently you should replace the oil, rotate the tyres, and inspect the brakes. However, little is spoken about how long your air conditioning system will last.
In most cases, a refrigerant recharge is required every couple of years. Some individuals prefer to have their air conditioning system tested once a year before the hot season arrives. These checks typically cost around $100 but provide peace of mind when it comes time to cool down the cabin. The refrigerant levels are examined and all important components are evaluated during a professional inspection.
Hoses can fail, especially after many years of service. The compressor is another common component that fails, usually after eight to ten years. However, if you do not maintain the air conditioning system or operate it with insufficient refrigerant, it will fail prematurely.
Serviced to Fix AC in Car
The air entering the system becomes warmer than usual, indicating that something is wrong. Depending on what has failed, this process can be gradual or abrupt. When parts fail, you may also detect unusual odours emerging from the system.
Aside from that, if you hear any weird sounds, such as grinding or screeching, you should have the air conditioning system checked. Of course, if you find any broken pieces, such as damaged hoses, you must act immediately.
Maintenance to Fix AC in Car
Regular maintenance is the best method to ensure that your car’s air conditioning system continues to function properly. Many people believe that the air conditioning system need not be checked frequently, but it should be included in your regularly scheduled maintenance. How Much Does it Cost to Fix AC in Car?
- Every week, turn on the air conditioner. It’s preferable to run it at the highest speed and coldest setting for at least ten minutes. This simple action aids in the maintenance of gas pressure.
- Every week, use the defrost mode. Each week, you simply need to leave it on for around five minutes. This procedure removes moisture and aids in the prevention of mildew growth.
- When necessary, recharge the system. To protect the compressor, check the air conditioning every year or two and recharge as needed.
- Air conditioner repair should be done as soon as there are indicators of failure. Allowing the problem to persist may result in additional breakdowns that are more expensive to repair.
Conclusion
The air conditioner keeps the interior of your vehicle cool and comfortable. It operates by converting the refrigerant from a gas to a liquid under high pressures and temperatures. Many components deteriorate over time, resulting in AC difficulties. When the air conditioner fails to function properly, a leak is a very regular problem. It may take several hours to identify the culprit. A dye may be injected to detect a potential leak, and some refrigerants already include a dye.
When using a UV dye, a potential leak can be observed when the engine compartment is illuminated with a UV light. The cost of repairing the air conditioner varies greatly depending on the situation. It might range from free to over a thousand bucks. As a result, there is no precise answer to how much auto AC repairs might cost. Replacing the cabin filter is a do-it-yourself project, however correcting leaks, changing the compressor, and other circumstances when the system must be emptied require the services of a professional.
Also Read: How to Fix Deep Scratches on Car?
