Having your air conditioning fail on a hot day is one of modern life&#;s minor tragedies. When the thermometer is creeping toward triple digits, and you&#;re stuck in traffic, the temperature inside your vehicle can become oppressive, even downright dangerous. A failed AC compressor, the heart of your AC system, is often the culprit of a broken AC system. If a mechanic informs you that your air conditioning compressor has failed, here&#;s what you need to know.
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Replacing a car&#;s AC (air conditioner) compressor typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000. The price will vary based on the make and model of your vehicle. Also, labor costs vary from one part of the country to the next, and those regional differences can impact how much you pay to have your car&#;s AC compressor replaced.
About 90% of the cost associated with replacing an AC compressor stems from the price of the parts needed to complete the job. The other 10% is labor.
It&#;s a good idea to shop around and get quotes from different repair shops to ensure you get the best deal.
Your car&#;s air conditioner compressor uses refrigerant to cool the cabin on hot days. A refrigerant is a chemical cooling agent; it absorbs heat energy and moves it away from the air-conditioned area, effectively lowering the temperature in that space. The air conditioner compressor pulls in refrigerant, compresses it, and sends it back into the car&#;s AC system, where it helps maintain cool temperatures within the cabin.
A car&#;s AC compressor typically lasts between 10 and 12 years. This compressor&#;s lifespan may vary based on how often you use the AC. Heavy usage could diminish this part&#;s life expectancy, so it&#;s something to consider if you live in a hot climate and often have your car&#;s air conditioning on.
Your car&#;s compressor clutch also affects how long your AC compressor lasts. The compressor clutch sends power from the engine crankshaft to the air conditioner compressor via a drive belt. Your car&#;s compressor clutch could fail, requiring the entire AC compressor to be replaced.
New car AC compressor / Credit: yanik88 via Getty ImagesHere&#;s some guidance on how to maintain the health of your car&#;s air conditioner compressor:
Your car&#;s cabin air filter helps remove pollutants like pollen and dust from the air circulating within the vehicle. It may restrict airflow if it gets dirty, and this can tax the AC compressor. Keeping the cabin air filter clean can help ensure your car&#;s air conditioner compressor lives a long, healthy life.
Engine coolant absorbs heat from the car&#;s engine and prevents the AC compressor from working too hard when it&#;s hot outside. Keeping the engine coolant topped off can help avoid AC compressor issues.
The condenser is a vital part of a car&#;s AC system. You&#;ll typically find it near the radiator at the front of the vehicle. Sometimes, debris can clog the condenser, which can strain the AC compressor. A clean condenser gives the air conditioning compressor the support it needs to do its job.
Your car&#;s AC system may develop a leak, and prompt repair is essential. A leak can tax the AC compressor and shorten its life.
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Over time, dust and dirt can build up and clog your car&#;s AC system, taking a toll on the air conditioner compressor. Regularly servicing the AC system can help protect the air conditioner compressor from damage.
Specific symptoms may indicate that your car&#;s AC compressor needs repair. Here are some things to look out for:
If the air blowing from your car&#;s AC vents is warmer than usual, you may have a problem with the air conditioner compressor.
If there are noises under your car&#;s hood that emanate from the AC compressor, it could indicate that the part needs repair.
If an inspection reveals corrosion on the AC compressor, it may be a sign that the unit isn&#;t working correctly. Corrosion is caused by moisture, and moisture can damage your car&#;s AC system. Also, check for leaks since they can prevent the AC compressor from functioning correctly.
If you detect a strange odor when you lift the car&#;s hood, it may be a sign that the AC compressor is faulty. A sweet, chemical-like smell sometimes accompanies AC compressor problems.
Changing your car&#;s AC compressor is a tough job. It&#;s best left to a mechanic for these reasons:
It requires a wide range of tools and devices specific to the task. Several tools are needed to replace a car&#;s AC compressor. You&#;ll need several wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, and pliers to remove and attach the necessary bolts, clips, and clamps. You&#;ll also need an AC manifold gauge to monitor the system&#;s pressure.
Minor errors can have major consequences. Replacing an AC compressor is a precise task; even small errors can cause significant problems. For example, if you nick a seal during the repair, it could cause a leak that slowly drains the refrigerant in the weeks and months ahead.
You&#;ll need to drain the refrigerant beforehand, which can only be done by a licensed professional. Replacing your car&#;s AC compressor may require you to deal with refrigerant. Refrigerant can harm the environment if mishandled. Under the law, only licensed professionals are allowed to work with refrigerant.
Though they&#;re cheaper than new units, buying a used AC compressor is generally not a good idea. Getting an accurate read on a used unit&#;s condition and expected lifespan can be tricky, and some repair shops refuse to sell used AC compressors for that reason. A used compressor sitting on a shelf or in a wrecking yard can attract moisture that corrodes its components and shortens its life.
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