How much do AC compressors cost?

Is your car’s AC system in need of repairs?

If your car’s AC system hasn’t been up to scratch recently, you may be dealing with a broken AC compressor. As the only moving component, aside from the TX valve, the compressor is very vulnerable to wear and tear. It’s also the most important part of the system.

The compressor is responsible for pumping refrigerant through each of the other components in the AC system and is driven by a belt and pulley attached to the engine. If it fails, it will prevent your AC from working. It may also damage other components through contamination, where fine metal particles from the failed compressor travel with the refrigerant throughout the system, causing blockages and damage.

Think something might be wrong with your compressor? Talk to your nearest cooling specialist at Natrad workshops nationwide. Find your closest one here.

Signs and symptoms of failure

Have any of these occurred when using your car air conditioning? 

1. Weird noises: may be caused by worn or broken belts/pulleys. This could be related to several other issues that need to be addressed promptly.
2. Smell of burning: it’s likely from heat caused by friction indicating the compressor or belt/pulley is damaged.

The above symptoms indicate a severe problem in the system and should be fixed as quickly as possible.

Read here for more signs and symptoms.

Factors that influence the cost of replacing an AC compressor

If you’ve established a failed compressor as the cause of your AC issues, you might be wondering how much it costs to replace it.

The price is dependent on various factors, including:

Type and brand of compressor 

Different AC compressors come with varying price tags. The type and brand of the compressor you choose will significantly impact the overall cost. High-end or specialised compressors may cost more than standard models.

Compressor size and capacity 

The size and capacity of the compressor needed for your AC system depends on factors like the size of your car. Larger compressors generally cost more than smaller ones. 

Refrigerant type 

The type of refrigerant used in your AC system can affect the cost. Older systems might use refrigerants that are being phased out due to environmental concerns and the cost of these refrigerants may be higher.

Labour costs

The cost of labour for the replacement is a significant factor. Labour costs can vary based on location, the complexity of the job and the level of your technician’s experience and expertise.

System accessibility 

If the AC compressor is easily accessible, the replacement process may be less labour-intensive and, therefore, less expensive. If the compressor is located in a hard-to-reach area, it may require more time and effort to replace, leading to higher labour costs.

System age and condition 

Older AC systems may have components that are harder to find or are no longer in production, potentially increasing the overall cost of replacement parts. Additionally, if other components in the system are also in poor condition, they might require replacing, adding to the overall cost.

Warranty coverage 

If your AC system or compressor is still under warranty, it could significantly reduce the cost of replacement. Check the warranty terms to understand what is covered and for how long.

Additional repairs or upgrades

Sometimes, other issues within the AC system can be revealed while replacing the compressor. If additional repairs or upgrades are needed, these will contribute to the overall cost. 

Local market conditions 

The overall cost of replacing a car’s AC compressor can vary based on local market conditions such as supply & demand, and the overall cost of living in your area. 

To help you get a better understanding of AC compressor costs, our Natrad workshops can provide a thorough inspection and diagnosis of any AC system issues. If the problem is the compressor, Natrad technicians will be able to supply a quote for the expected replacement and repair. 

Air conditioning specialists

We inspect and repair air conditioning systems for all vehicle types.

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Considerations before replacement 

Before diving into the process of purchasing a new AC compressor, there are several important considerations that can help ensure a smoother and more cost-effective experience. Taking the time to address these factors can contribute to a successful replacement and may even uncover opportunities to enhance the overall performance of your car’s air conditioning system.

Diagnostic evaluations 

Before committing to a compressor replacement, it’s essential to conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation of the entire AC system. This evaluation can identify the root cause of compressor failure and help determine if other components, such as the condenser or expansion valve, also require attention. Diagnostic tests may incur additional costs, but they provide valuable insights into the overall health of the system. 

Consider the vehicle’s age and mileage 

Assessing the age and mileage of your vehicle is crucial in making an informed decision. For older vehicles with high mileage, it may be worth considering the overall condition of the car. If the compressor failure is one of multiple issues, it might be more cost-effective to evaluate the feasibility of replacing the entire AC system or, in some cases, considering a new vehicle.

Review repair history 

Examine the vehicle’s repair history, especially concerning its AC system. If the compressor has been replaced previously, it’s essential to understand why it failed and if there are recurring issues. Addressing underlying problems can prevent premature compressor failure in the future

The Cost

With so many factors to account for, the cost of an AC compressor is a very difficult figure to pin down. As of 2024 however, the price range of a new AC compressor roughly comes around to between $350 and $1500 (depending on the application). For some prestige or industrial vehicles, it can cost even more.

At the end of the day, it is nearly impossible to make a general statement about the cost of an AC compressor. The figure varies dramatically depending on all the factors discussed before. The most reliable way to get an actionable figure is by getting your vehicle diagnostically assessed by an Automotive AC specialist. They will be able to diagnose if your compressor needs replacing and the costs involved, taking into account every factor specific to your vehicle. The determined figure will be far more accurate than any website article will ever be able to describe. 

At Natrad, our cooling specialists are trained to do just this job. Nip into your nearest Natrad and talk to one of our Natrad technicians. We offer expert advice on what issues might exist in your system and what repairs will be necessary. Plus, pricing and repair costs will be supplied in a detailed quote.

Compressor kits

In the case of system contamination, AC compressor kits provide great value for money. They include all the following parts which are crucial to the rest of the system’s function:

• Compressor
• Condenser
• Compressor oil
• Thermal expansion valve / Orifice tube
• Receiver drier / accumulator
• Air conditioning system treatment
• Measuring cup
• System guard strap

Natrad’s compressor kits are supported by a 3-year nationwide warranty. If your AC system requires significant repairs, choose one of our compressor kits for a quality fix.

Nip into Natrad for failed compressor repairs

Now that you know what to expect, you’ll need to decide on the next steps. To make sure the problem is properly diagnosed, talk to your nearest Natrad technician. We offer expert advice on what issues may exist in your system and what repairs will be necessary. Plus, pricing and repair costs will be supplied in a detailed quote.

Natrad’s talented technicians are cooling specialists you can trust to help find the right solution for your vehicle. Contact us today for more information on our air conditioning services.