The clutch mechanism utilises a bearing that can fail as well.Īnd if one of the seals or internal parts in the AC compressor develops a flaw, the compressor won’t function as it should or not at all, and will need to be replaced. This cycle continues as long as the AC system is activated or the defogger is turned on.Ī small amount of oil is required to lubricate the moving components. Inside the AC compressor, two pistons attached to a wobble plate pump the low-pressure refrigerant entering the compressor into the high-pressure side. In turn, the rest of your AC system enables that refrigerant to cool the air that enters your car, but it all starts with the compressor.Īn electrically-activated clutch on the compressor engages when the system detects lowering pressure. It pressurises and circulates the refrigerant in your car’s AC system. On average, you can expect AC compressor replacement to cost $800 to $1,200 or more, depending on the make and model you drive.īecause it’s a cornerstone component of your air conditioning, your AC won’t function if the compressor is broken.Īt the basic level, an AC compressor is a mechanical pump. In many situations, the AC compressor lasts the whole life of the vehicle without requiring replacement, although failure is more likely after 150,000km.

Through normal wear and tear, and possibly due to an unexpected defect, the AC compressor may stop functioning or seize.

The AC compressor pressurises the system to push the refrigerant throughout. When the temperature gets steamy outside, the air conditioning system keeps your car’s interior comfortable by circulating refrigerant throughout the AC system. How much does an AC compressor replacement cost?

Ac unit compressor replacement cost