AC Service & Repair | Firestone Complete Auto Care (2024)

FAQs

How often should a car AC system be serviced? ›

But how often should you get your car AC serviced, you ask? It is often recommended by certified car AC repair technicians to have an inspection at least twice a year—in the fall following summer's hot temperatures, and in the spring to get your car ready for summer.

These can be costly to fix due to being challenging to get to and expensive to purchase. Refrigerant recovery is time-consuming, typically requiring three hours or more to service. All these things make servicing an automotive air conditioner something that is beyond the skill level of the average car owner.

A professional AC recharge cost ranges from $150 – $300 on average depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Getting a diagnostic test for your AC can increase its lifespan and improve its efficiency. A regular diagnostic test takes about half an hour and can extend to an hour or more, spending on the condition of the unit.

Auto AC service involves inspecting, testing, and repairing various components of the air conditioning system in your vehicle. The AC system in your car plays an important role in keeping you and your passengers comfortable, especially during hot weather.

Bad Odours. The cabin air filter of your air conditioner can become dirty or worn over time. The first sign that it needs to be cleaned or replaced is a bad smell coming from your air con. Mould is another common culprit when it comes to unpleasant air con odours.

The cost to replace a vehicle AC compressor depends on the type of vehicle and location, as parts and labor costs vary. On average, replacing an AC compressor costs around $1,100, with labor costs ranging from $160 to $200 and parts from $650 to $840. Getting quotes from multiple shops can help save on costs.

Generally, car A/C systems last eight to 10 years before needing repairs. That's how long your car's A/C compressor is likely to remain in good working condition. That being said, the warmer the climate that you live in, the sooner you may need to get your car's A/C repaired.

When it's time for an AC recharge, turn to AutoZone. We carry R134a refrigerant, PAG46 oil, AC stop leak, AC system cleaner, and more. You can shop online for same day in-store pick up or go to your local AutoZone to find the right AC solution for you and your vehicle.

One of the most obvious symptoms of low Freon levels is if your air conditioner is blowing warm or room temperature air. As we discussed, the air conditioning system in your vehicle operates by circulating this pressurized refrigerant. When the amount drops too low, it eventually affects performance.

Can I recharge my car AC myself? ›

You can save about $100 in labor costs by doing the car ac recharge job yourself. Stop at any auto parts store and pick up an R-134a A/C recharging kit. I used the A/C Pro Recharge Kit product because it came with a reusable gauge and a quick-connect fitting, and the refrigerant contained a seal conditioner additive.

So, how often should a car air conditioner be serviced? The air conditioning in the car should be serviced every two years.

In some cases, technicians use UV leak detection — adding a bit of UV dye to the car A/C system and cycling it through. When the dye circulates through the system, it escapes through any leak sites, which are then identified using a specialized flashlight.

In order to keep your car air conditioning in top working order, it is advised that an inspection and service be carried out every 12 months. This is particularly prudent before summer arrives.

If you own a brand new vehicle your refrigerant gas will last 3-5 years without you running into any major issues as long as you maintain a yearly car aircon service such as a 24-point diagnosis and Performance Check.

It's recommended that you recharge the air conditioning in your car every two years, to keep the cooling power at its highest. This keeps the refrigerant loss to around 14%. This means if we are recharging a system that holds 25oz you would only be purchasing 3.5oz of refrigerant.

Generally, car A/C systems last eight to 10 years before needing repairs. That's how long your car's A/C compressor is likely to remain in good working condition. That being said, the warmer the climate that you live in, the sooner you may need to get your car's A/C repaired.