1. What causes a car AC compressor to fail?
Car AC Wale: A car AC compressor can fail due to several reasons:
• Overheating of the engine, which may stress the compressor
• Low compressor oil level
• Incorrect refrigerant gas quantity (either underfilled or overfilled)
• Excessive heat on the compressor or poor cooling
• A clogged condenser or radiator reducing system efficiency
Regular servicing and proper AC maintenance can help prevent compressor failure.
2. How much does it cost to replace a car AC compressor?
Car AC Wale: The cost of replacing a car AC compressor varies:
• For regular cars, the compressor costs between ₹8,000 to ₹18,000
• For imported or European vehicles, it can range from ₹15,000 to ₹40,000
Labour charges and refrigerant gas refilling are extra and depend on the vehicle type.
3. Can a car AC compressor be repaired instead of replaced?
Car AC Wale: Yes, but only certain parts like the clutch, pulley, magnet, bearing, or control valve can be
repaired or replaced.
If the compressor has stopped pumping refrigerant altogether, it usually cannot be repaired and
must be replaced.
4. When should a car AC compressor be replaced?
Car AC Wale: If regularly serviced, a car AC compressor can last up to 10 years.
However, if you’re experiencing symptoms like poor cooling or unusual noise, the compressor
might need to be replaced.
5. Is it necessary to replace the condenser when replacing the compressor?
Car AC Wale: Yes, it’s highly recommended to replace both together.
The compressor and condenser work as a set, especially if there is “blackness” or sludge (called
hemry) in the system, which can damage new components if left behind.
6. How does a car’s air conditioning system work?
Car AC Wale: The car AC system works in a closed loop:
• The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas
• It moves to the condenser, where it cools down
• Then it passes through the expansion valve, reducing pressure and temperature
• This cold refrigerant cools the evaporator coil, and air is blown through it into the cabin
• The refrigerant returns to the compressor, and the cycle repeats
7. What is the average cost to service a car AC?
Car AC Wale: AC service cost depends on the car and the type of service:
• Regular servicing can cost between ₹2,000 to ₹4,000
• If the evaporator coil needs to be removed, the cost increases due to additional labour.
8. How much does it cost to replace a car AC evaporator?
Car AC Wale: Replacing an evaporator involves dashboard removal, which adds to labour costs. Typical costs
include:
• Labour: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
• Evaporator/coil: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
• Gas recharge: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
Total cost may vary depending on the car make and model.
9. How much refrigerant gas does a car AC system require?
Car AC Wale: The amount of refrigerant gas varies by vehicle:
• Most cars require between 450 grams to 900 grams
• Dual AC systems (like in SUVs or MUVs) may require more
10. How much oil goes into a car AC system?
Car AC Wale: As a general rule, the oil quantity is about 25% of the refrigerant gas quantity.
Exact oil capacity depends on the compressor and car model.
11. Why is there usually no warranty on car AC systems?
Car AC Wale: AC system repair is highly technical, and sometimes issues arise due to other underlying vehicle
problems.
Because of these external factors, most companies avoid giving a warranty on car AC systems,
even after replacement.
