How much does ac compressor replacement cost?

Typically $600–$1,200 at a US independent shop — about $250–$650 in parts and $250–$550 in labor for a mainstream vehicle. Your exact cost depends on your year, make, model, and engine. The free AI Mechanic gives a vehicle-specific estimate.

What makes AC compressor replacement cheaper or more expensive?

Compressor + drier/orifice replaced together; System flush after a failure; Refrigerant recharge (R-1234yf costs more).

AC compressor replacement cost

A AC compressor replacement typically costs $600–$1,200 at a US independent shop for a mainstream vehicle — but your exact cost depends on your year, make, model, and engine.

Parts: $250–$650
Labor: $250–$550
Total: $600–$1,200

When the AC blows warm and the compressor clutch will not engage, the compressor is a common cause. The job includes evacuating and recharging the refrigerant, which needs shop equipment.

What affects the price

Compressor + drier/orifice replaced together
System flush after a failure
Refrigerant recharge (R-1234yf costs more)

DIY vs. shop

Advanced — refrigerant handling requires certified equipment; most use a shop.

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Ranges like this are a starting point. Tell the AI Mechanic your year, make, model, and the symptom or OBD2 code — it estimates the cost for your exact vehicle, flags the likely cheap fix before the expensive one, and tells you when a shop is genuinely the right call.

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Related symptoms: AC not blowing cold

More repair costs

catalytic converter $900–$2,500 alternator $400–$900 brake pads $150–$350 brake rotors $300–$600 timing belt $500–$1,000 spark plugs $150–$400