AC Diagnosis Cost Estimate
The average cost for an AC Diagnosis is between $122 and $179.
- Labor costs are estimated between $122 and $179.
- This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
- For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.
AC Diagnosis
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How is the air conditioning system diagnosed?
Diagnosis of the air conditioning system requires advanced knowledge of air conditioning systems, and a good understanding of the relationship between temperature and pressure of a liquid and gas. A technician with proper training, and certification is required to repair an air conditioning system. Professional grade equipment is used to read high and low side pressure, and the technician must rely on hours of classroom and hands-on training to understand the readings, diagnose the faulty part, and recommend a repair.
What will be the outcome of an air conditioning system diagnosis?
Replacement of most air conditioning components requires complete evacuation of the air conditioning system with a refrigerant recovery machine. Once components are re-installed, the technician will remove all air from the system in preparation for recharging the system with new refrigerant.
RepairPal Recommendations for air conditioning systems
Refrigerant is environmentally harmful, and should never be released into the air. Instead, a proper refrigerant recovery machine must be used to protect the technician, and the environment. We do not recommend attempting to recharge the A/C system at home, as products available to consumers tend to contain substances that can cause damage to expensive refrigerant recovery equipment. Lastly, if your vehicle has not been converted from R12 to R134a refrigerant, the best time to have this service completed is when the air conditioning system is already being serviced.
What to look out for with the air conditioning system
Refrigerant is a dangerous chemical that can cause severe chemical burns to the skin and eyes if improperly handled, and discharging into the atmosphere will cause damage to the ozone. Refrigerant types are updated over time, and the appropriate type must be used. If there has been an update or conversion from an older refrigerant type, a label should be placed under the hood to make your technician aware of the change. Depending on location, it may be illegal for a technician to replace refrigerant without updating the A/C system to handle the newest type.
Can I diagnose the air conditioning system myself?
The air conditioning system is not serviceable without proper recovery and evacuation equipment, and attempting to release refrigerant into the air can result in severe chemical burns. Repair of A/C components should be left to certified professionals, and is not considered a DIY job.
AC Diagnosis Cost Estimates
The average cost for a AC Diagnosis is between $122 and $179 but can vary from car to car.
