AC Repair Services
Compare quotes from local verified mechanics
About AC Repair
Don't suffer through hot weather with a broken AC. Our network of certified mechanics can diagnose and repair all air conditioning issues, from simple recharges to compressor replacements. Get competitive quotes for AC repair and stay cool on the road.
Average Cost Range
Actual costs vary based on your vehicle, location, and specific needs. Get personalized quotes to see exact pricing.
How Your Vehicle's AC System Works
Your vehicle's air conditioning system is a complex refrigeration cycle that removes heat and humidity from cabin air. Understanding how the system works helps you recognize problems early and communicate effectively with mechanics.
Refrigerant (Freon/R-134a/R-1234yf)
The chemical that carries heat from inside your cabin to outside. Modern systems use R-134a or newer R-1234yf refrigerant. Older vehicles used R-12 (Freon). Refrigerant changes state from liquid to gas and back, absorbing and releasing heat in the process.
Why it matters: Low refrigerant means no cooling. Leaks are the most common AC problem. Unlike oil, refrigerant doesn't 'wear out' - if it's low, there's a leak somewhere.
Compressor
The heart of the AC system. Belt-driven pump that compresses refrigerant gas, raising its pressure and temperature. When compressor fails, AC stops working entirely. Compressors fail from lack of lubrication (low refrigerant), clutch failure, or internal seizure.
Why it matters: Most expensive AC component ($400-$1,200 replacement). Proper refrigerant level keeps compressor lubricated and prevents failure.
Condenser
Radiator-like component mounted in front of vehicle's radiator. Hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas flows through condenser coils where airflow cools it back to liquid state. Road debris can damage condenser fins, reducing cooling efficiency.
Why it matters: Damaged condenser = poor cooling performance. Located in vulnerable position means rock damage is common.
Evaporator
Located inside dashboard behind firewall. Cold, low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters evaporator coils where it evaporates (turns to gas), absorbing heat from cabin air. Cabin air blows across cold evaporator coils, cooling and dehumidifying it.
Why it matters: If evaporator leaks, requires dashboard removal for replacement ($800-$1,500 labor). Water leaks inside car often indicate clogged evaporator drain.
Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
Restricts refrigerant flow between high and low pressure sides of system. Creates pressure drop that allows liquid refrigerant to evaporate in evaporator. Small component but critical for proper AC operation.
Why it matters: Clogged expansion valve causes intermittent cooling or no cooling. Relatively cheap part ($50-150) but requires system evacuation to replace.
Receiver-Drier or Accumulator
Filters and stores refrigerant. Contains desiccant material that removes moisture from system. Must be replaced whenever system is opened for repairs. Moisture in AC system causes corrosion and ice formation.
Why it matters: Moisture = AC system enemy. Contaminated drier causes compressor failure and reduced cooling.
AC Compressor Clutch
Electromagnetic clutch on front of compressor. Engages and disengages compressor from engine's serpentine belt. When you turn AC on, clutch engages with audible click. Failed clutch = compressor won't run = no cooling.
Why it matters: Clutch failure is common. Replacement clutch ($150-400) cheaper than full compressor replacement.
Blower Motor and Resistor
Electric motor that pushes cabin air across evaporator coils and through vents. Resistor controls blower speed. Failed blower = no airflow even if AC system working. Failed resistor = only one or two fan speeds work.
Why it matters: Blower failure means no cooling even with working AC system. Common problem, relatively cheap fix ($150-400).
Signs You Need AC Repair
🔴URGENT - Get Serviced TODAY
AC Blowing Warm Air Suddenly (Was Working Fine)
What it means: Sudden refrigerant loss from leak, compressor failure, or electrical failure
Why it's urgent: If driving in extreme heat (100°F+), lack of AC can be safety issue for children, elderly, or pets. Also indicates potential expensive damage if compressor running without lubrication.
What to do: Turn AC off immediately to prevent compressor damage. Get diagnosed within 1-2 days in summer heat.
Common cause: Refrigerant leak (most common), compressor clutch failure, blown fuse, compressor seizure
Cost to fix: $150-$400 if leak + recharge, $400-$1,200 if compressor replacement
Loud Grinding or Squealing When AC Turns On
What it means: Compressor bearing failure or clutch failure in progress
Why it's urgent: Failing compressor can seize completely, requiring expensive replacement. Metal contamination from failing compressor can damage entire AC system.
What to do: Turn AC off immediately. Don't run AC until diagnosed. Continuing to run destroys compressor and contaminates system.
Common cause: Compressor bearing failure, clutch bearing failure, low refrigerant causing lack of lubrication
Cost to fix: $400-$1,200 for compressor replacement, $200-$500 for clutch replacement if caught early
Visible Refrigerant Leak (Oily Residue Around AC Components)
What it means: Active refrigerant leak allowing system to lose cooling capacity
Why it's urgent: Continuing to run AC with major leak causes compressor damage from lack of lubrication. Refrigerant expensive to replace repeatedly.
What to do: Turn AC off. Get leak diagnosed and repaired before recharging system.
Common cause: Damaged condenser (front of car), worn O-rings and seals, corroded evaporator, failed hose connections
Cost to fix: $150-$300 for minor seal repair, $400-$800 for condenser replacement, $800-$1,500 for evaporator replacement
🟡SHOULD BE SERVICED SOON (Within a Week)
AC Cooling Gradually Getting Weaker Over Time
What it means: Slow refrigerant leak, failing compressor, or contaminated system
Why urgent: Indicates ongoing problem that will worsen. Easier and cheaper to fix before complete failure.
What to do: Get AC performance test and leak check within 2 weeks
Common cause: Slow refrigerant leak, partially clogged expansion valve, failing compressor, condenser blocked by debris
Cost to fix: $150-$400 if just leak repair and recharge, $400-$1,000 if component replacement needed
AC Works But Not As Cold As It Used To Be
What it means: Low refrigerant, partially blocked components, or failing compressor
Why urgent: Performance degradation indicates underlying issue developing
What to do: Schedule AC performance test within 2-3 weeks, especially before summer heat
Common cause: Low refrigerant from slow leak, dirty condenser, failing compressor, clogged cabin air filter
Cost to fix: $100-$200 for recharge if just low, $150-$500 if needs repairs
AC Takes Long Time to Cool Down Cabin
What it means: Reduced system capacity from low refrigerant or component issues
Why urgent: Summer heat makes this progressively worse and more dangerous
What to do: Get diagnosed within 2-3 weeks before peak summer
Common cause: Low refrigerant, dirty cabin filter, blocked condenser, weak compressor
Cost to fix: $150-$400 for diagnosis and minor repairs
AC Cycles On and Off Frequently
What it means: Low refrigerant, overcharged system, or electrical issues with pressure switches
Why urgent: Short cycling stresses compressor and reduces cooling efficiency
What to do: Schedule AC service within 2 weeks
Common cause: Low refrigerant, overcharged system, failing pressure switch, electrical issues
Cost to fix: $100-$300 for pressure switch or recharge, $400+ if compressor issue
Musty or Moldy Smell When AC Runs
What it means: Mold and bacteria growth on evaporator coils from moisture buildup
Why urgent: Health issue - breathing mold spores. Gets progressively worse.
What to do: Schedule evaporator cleaning within 2-3 weeks
Common cause: Clogged evaporator drain, moisture on evaporator coils, contaminated cabin filter
Cost to fix: $100-$250 for evaporator cleaning and new cabin filter
🟢MONITOR & SCHEDULE (Within a Month)
AC Makes Slight Hissing Sound When Running
What it means: Normal refrigerant flow through expansion valve or slight leak
Why monitor:
What to do: Monitor over next few weeks. If gets louder, have checked.
Common cause: Normal expansion valve operation or very minor leak
Cost to fix: $100-$300 if leak develops and needs repair
Water Dripping Under Car When AC Runs
What it means: Normal condensation drainage from evaporator - this is GOOD
Why monitor:
What to do: No action needed - this is normal operation
Common cause: Normal evaporator condensation drainage
Cost to fix: $0 - this is normal
AC Performance Slightly Reduced in Extreme Heat (110°F+)
What it means: System working at maximum capacity in extreme conditions
Why monitor:
What to do: If cooling is adequate in normal temps but slightly weak only in extreme heat, monitor. Get checked if inadequate even in moderate temps.
Common cause: Normal system limitation in extreme temperatures
Cost to fix: No cost if performance acceptable in normal conditions
Types of AC Repair & What They Cost
AC Recharge (Refrigerant Top-Off)
What it is: Adding refrigerant to system that's low but not completely empty. Quick service that adds measured amount of refrigerant to restore proper pressure.
When needed: When AC blows warm air but system not completely empty. Some refrigerant loss over years is normal. However, modern sealed systems shouldn't need frequent recharges - if refrigerant low, leak likely present.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: Refrigerant: $50-$150 (R-134a cheaper, R-1234yf more expensive)
• Labor: $50-$150 (30-60 minutes)
• Total: $100-$300
Time: 30-60 minutes
Warranty: 30-90 days typical
Note: Recharge without leak repair is temporary fix. Leak should be found and repaired for permanent solution.
AC Leak Detection and Repair
What it is: Finding refrigerant leak using UV dye or electronic leak detector, then repairing leak and recharging system. Leak can be in hoses, O-rings, condenser, evaporator, or compressor seals.
When needed: When AC loses refrigerant repeatedly or when recharge doesn't last. Modern sealed systems should hold refrigerant for vehicle lifetime - if low, leak exists.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: Leak repair parts (O-rings, seals): $20-$200, Refrigerant: $50-$150
• Labor: $100-$300 (1-3 hours depending on leak location)
• Total: $170-$650 depending on leak location and severity
Time: 1-3 hours
Warranty: 12 months / 12,000 miles typical
Note: Evaporator leaks most expensive due to dashboard removal labor ($800-1,500 total)
AC Compressor Replacement
What it is: Replacing failed compressor with new or remanufactured unit. Includes evacuating old refrigerant, removing old compressor, installing new compressor, replacing receiver-drier, evacuating system, and recharging with fresh refrigerant.
When needed: When compressor seized, making loud noise, or not building pressure. Compressor failure often from low refrigerant causing lack of lubrication.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: Compressor: $200-$600, Receiver-drier: $50-$150, Refrigerant: $50-$150
• Labor: $200-$600 (2-6 hours depending on vehicle)
• Total: $500-$1,500 depending on vehicle and part quality
Time: 2-6 hours
Warranty: 12-24 months / 12,000-24,000 miles
Note: When compressor fails internally, metal contamination requires flushing entire system adding $150-300 to repair cost
AC Condenser Replacement
What it is: Replacing damaged or leaking condenser (radiator-like component in front of car). Common damage from road debris. Requires evacuating system, removing old condenser, installing new condenser, replacing receiver-drier, and recharging.
When needed: When condenser damaged by road debris, corroded and leaking, or blocked and restricting refrigerant flow.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: Condenser: $150-$500, Receiver-drier: $50-$150, Refrigerant: $50-$150
• Labor: $200-$500 (2-4 hours, front bumper often must be removed)
• Total: $450-$1,300 depending on vehicle
Time: 2-4 hours
Warranty: 12 months / 12,000 miles typical
AC Evaporator Replacement
What it is: Replacing leaking evaporator located behind dashboard. Most labor-intensive AC repair due to dashboard removal requirement. Includes removing dashboard, replacing evaporator, installing new receiver-drier, reassembling dashboard, evacuating system, and recharging.
When needed: When evaporator leaking (usually detected by sweet smell, oily windshield, or persistent low refrigerant). Water leaking inside car can also indicate clogged evaporator drain.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: Evaporator: $150-$400, Receiver-drier: $50-$150, Refrigerant: $50-$150
• Labor: $500-$1,200 (6-12 hours for dashboard removal/installation)
• Total: $750-$1,900 depending on vehicle complexity
Time: 6-12 hours (often 2-day job)
Warranty: 12-24 months / 12,000-24,000 miles
AC Performance Test and Inspection
What it is: Comprehensive AC system evaluation including pressure test, temperature test, leak check, visual inspection, and electrical system check. Identifies problems before they cause complete failure.
When needed: Annually before summer, when AC performance reduced, or when buying used vehicle. Preventative maintenance catches small problems before they become expensive.
Cost Breakdown:
• Parts: None (diagnostic only)
• Labor: $75-$150 (30-60 minutes)
• Total: $75-$150
Time: 30-60 minutes
Warranty: Diagnostic only - no warranty
How to Extend Your AC Life
Run AC Monthly Year-Round
Why it matters: Running AC circulates refrigerant and lubricates compressor seals. Prevents seals from drying out and cracking during off-season.
How often: At least 10 minutes per month, even in winter
Cost: Free
Result: Prevents seal deterioration and extends compressor life by years
Replace Cabin Air Filter Regularly
Why it matters: Dirty cabin filter reduces airflow across evaporator, reducing cooling efficiency and causing AC to work harder. Also affects air quality.
How often: Every 15,000-25,000 miles or annually
Cost: $15-$50 (DIY) or $50-$100 (shop)
Result: Better cooling efficiency, improved airflow, cleaner cabin air
Clean Condenser Fins Annually
Why it matters: Condenser (in front of radiator) collects bugs, leaves, and debris reducing cooling efficiency. Blocked condenser forces AC to work harder.
How often: Annually before summer
Cost: $50-$100 if shop does it, free if DIY with garden hose
Result: Improved cooling performance, reduced strain on compressor
Check for Refrigerant Leaks Annually
Why it matters: Small leaks become big problems. Early detection prevents compressor damage from running with low refrigerant (lack of lubrication).
How often: Annually or if cooling performance degrades
Cost: $75-$150 for leak detection
Result: Prevents expensive compressor failure from low refrigerant
Keep AC on 'Fresh Air' Not 'Recirculate' Initially
Why it matters: When starting car in hot weather, fresh air mode vents superheated cabin air faster. Once cabin temp drops, switch to recirculate for maximum efficiency.
How often: Every hot day start
Cost: Free
Result: Faster cabin cooling and less strain on AC system
Park in Shade When Possible
Why it matters: Shaded cars are 20-30°F cooler than sun-exposed cars. Cooler starting temp means less work for AC and faster cooling.
How often: Whenever possible
Cost: Free
Result: Reduced AC workload extends compressor life
Get AC Performance Test Before Summer
Why it matters: Catching AC problems in spring prevents breakdown in peak summer heat. Diagnostic finds small problems before they become expensive.
How often: Annually in spring (March-May)
Cost: $75-$150 for comprehensive test
Result: Prevents summer breakdown, catches small issues early
Seasonal Considerations
❄️ Winter: Run AC at least 10 minutes monthly to circulate refrigerant and prevent seal deterioration. Use defrost mode (which runs AC) to remove windshield fog efficiently.
☀️ Summer: Get AC serviced in spring before peak heat. In extreme heat (110°F+), start with fresh air mode to vent hot cabin air, then switch to recirculate. Park in shade when possible.
Common Signs You Need AC Repair
- Weak airflow
- Warm air instead of cold
- Strange smells
- AC not turning on
- Refrigerant leak
What's Typically Included
- AC recharge
- Compressor replacement
- Condenser repair
- Evaporator service
- Leak detection and repair
Get AC Repair Quotes in Your City
AC Repair FAQ
Get answers to common questions
Ready to Save on Your Next Repair?
Join 50,000+ drivers who compared quotes and saved an average of $412
✓ No credit card required ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation