What to Expect: Typical Service Times
- AC system inspection and pressure evaluation: 30 to 60 minutes
- Refrigerant leak detection: 1 to 2 hours
- Refrigerant evacuation and recharge: 45 to 90 minutes
- Cabin air filter replacement: 15 to 30 minutes
- AC compressor replacement: 3 to 5 hours depending on vehicle
- Condenser replacement: 2 to 4 hours
- Evaporator replacement: 4 to 8 hours; requires significant dashboard disassembly on most vehicles
How Our Technicians Approach AC Diagnosis
When a vehicle arrives with an AC complaint, we connect manifold gauges to the system’s high and low side service ports and measure operating pressures with the system running. Pressure readings immediately reveal whether the system is low on refrigerant, overcharged, or operating within the normal range for the current ambient temperature.
If the system is undercharged, we evacuate the refrigerant and measure the quantity recovered to confirm how significantly the system has lost charge. We then perform a leak search, scanning every connection, hose, component, and seal with an electronic leak detector, and examining the system under UV light if dye is already present.
We inspect the compressor clutch engagement and listen for abnormal bearing or internal noise. We verify the pressure differential between the high and low sides to confirm the compressor is actually pumping refrigerant. We check condenser fin condition and airflow, inspect evaporator operation, and evaluate the expansion valve or orifice tube.
We measure vent temperature at the dashboard registers to confirm whether the system is reaching the cooling capacity expected for current conditions. Once the inspection is complete, we present our findings and explain exactly what needs to be done and why before any work begins.
