Car AC Compressor Cost

Car AC Compressor Cost

How Much does a car AC Compressor Cost?
Replacing your car AC compressor is one of the most costly auto air conditioning repairs there is. As well as one of the most misunderstood.
If your car air conditioning system isn’t working, it could be due to an aircon compressor failure.

The cost of a car AC compressor replacement can vary significantly based on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the type of compressor used, and whether you choose to have it replaced by a professional mechanic or do it yourself. Here are some approximate cost ranges to give you an idea of what to expect:

1. Compressor Cost: The cost of the AC compressor itself can range from $100 to $1100 or more. This wide price range is due to the varying quality and types of compressors available. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) compressors are typically more expensive, while aftermarket or remanufactured compressors tend to be more affordable.
2. Labor Costs: If you’re having a professional mechanic replace the AC compressor, labor costs can significantly impact the total expense. Labor rates vary by location and the mechanic’s experience, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more for labor.
3. Refrigerant and Additional Parts: You may need to purchase additional refrigerant, lubricant, and seals when replacing the AC compressor. The cost of these materials can range from $20 to $500, depending on the type of refrigerant used.
4. Total Replacement Cost: In total, the cost to replace a car AC compressor by a professional mechanic typically ranges from $300 to $1,500 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. This estimate includes the compressor cost, labor, and any additional materials required.

It’s worth noting that labor costs can be a significant portion of the expense, and they can vary from one region to another. Additionally, the make and model of your vehicle can influence the cost due to differences in design and accessibility. Luxury or high-performance vehicles may have more complex AC systems, which can increase the overall replacement cost.

WHAT CAUSES THE CAR AC COMPRESSOR TO FAIL?
LACK OF USE:

Car AC compressors which do not run regularly can starve for lubrication when turned on. So this may cause excessive wear until the oil again reaches the compressor valve. It’s best to use the car air conditioner once a week for at least fifteen minutes.

EXCESSIVE HIGH OR LOW PRESSURE:

Condenser fans can fail due to bad connections or defective motor winnings that get too hot. So this creates extreme head pressure and heat that can lock up or damage a car air conditioning compressor.

Here are the five main components of the automotive air conditioning system and what they do:

• Compressor. It’s in the vehicle’s front and puts the refrigerant under pressure. It works to compress the gas to the point of around 250 psi and increase the temperature at the same time.
• Condenser. A radiator-like component that the gas moves through once it’s heated. Inside the condenser, it converts the gas to a liquid as it removes the heat.
• Evaporator. It’s responsible for pulling the refrigerant into the vacuum where the gas then becomes cold.
• Thermal expansion valve It changes the system from high pressure to low pressure. It’s where things change from hot to cold.
• Drier or accumulator. Removes the water that has entered the system. Without this step, the unit can form ice crystals, which can damage the air conditioning unit.

NOT REGULARLY MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONER:
A small amount of oil is required to lubricate the moving components. We recommend a Two yearly car air conditioning regas service.

So on average, you can expect a Car AC compressor cost between $900 to $1,300 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Our expert technicians will recommend the most cost-effective solution to get your vehicle back on the road in air conditioning comfort.

Our mobile vans are set up with the latest vehicle air conditioning equipment to carry out all work on-site in Brisbane Southside Suburbs.

At Keepin’ Cool, our qualified air conditioning technicians can give you a detailed report on the condition of your air conditioning system. As well as help you out with any necessary ac repairs, or an ac regas. We want to get your car air conditioning working to its optimal performance. So make an appointment to see us today!