Common A/C System Diagnostic Services and Costs
Basic A/C Performance Check
Includes system pressure testing, temperature readings, and visual inspection
Typical time: 0.5-1 hour
Estimated cost: $62.50-$125
Refrigerant Leak Detection
Using electronic leak detector and/or UV dye testing
Typical time: 1-1.5 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Electrical System Diagnosis
Testing of relays, fuses, pressure switches, and control modules
Typical time: 1-2 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$250
Compressor Performance Testing
Checking compressor operation, clutch engagement, and pressure output
Typical time: 1-1.5 hours
Estimated cost: $125-$187.50
Complete System Evaluation
Comprehensive testing of all A/C components including computerized diagnostics
Typical time: 2-3 hours
Estimated cost: $250-$375
*Note: These are diagnostic costs only. Additional repairs and parts will be quoted separately based on findings.
*Labor rate: $125/hour
Common A/C System Diagnostic Procedures
Low Refrigerant/Refrigerant Leak
Diagnostic Steps:
- Connect manifold gauge set to check system pressure
- Perform visual inspection of components for oil residue
- Use UV dye and black light to detect leak locations
- Utilize electronic leak detector for precise leak detection
Repair Procedure:
- Recover remaining refrigerant
- Repair or replace leaking component
- Vacuum test system for minimum 30 minutes
- Recharge system with correct amount of refrigerant
- Verify proper operation and pressures
Failed Compressor
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check compressor clutch engagement
- Listen for abnormal noises
- Monitor pressure readings
- Test electrical connections
Repair Procedure:
- Recover refrigerant
- Remove failed compressor
- Flush entire A/C system
- Replace receiver/drier or accumulator
- Install new compressor
- Vacuum test system
- Recharge with correct oil and refrigerant amount
Faulty Condenser
Diagnostic Steps:
- Visual inspection for damage or blockage
- Check temperature differential across condenser
- Monitor high-side pressure readings
Repair Procedure:
- Recover refrigerant
- Remove damaged condenser
- Install new condenser
- Replace receiver/drier
- Vacuum test system
- Recharge system
- Verify proper cooling
Electrical Issues
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check fuses and relays
- Test voltage at components
- Inspect wiring for damage
- Verify sensor operations
Repair Procedure:
- Identify faulty component or wiring
- Replace damaged components
- Repair or replace wiring as needed
- Test system operation
- Verify proper voltage readings
Blocked Expansion Valve/Orifice Tube
Diagnostic Steps:
- Check temperature readings across valve
- Monitor pressure readings
- Inspect for frost formation
Repair Procedure:
- Recover refrigerant
- Remove blocked component
- Clean system or flush if necessary
- Install new expansion device
- Replace receiver/drier
- Vacuum test system
- Recharge and verify operation
Note: All A/C system repairs should be performed by certified technicians using proper equipment and following environmental regulations for refrigerant handling.
Why would I need an A/C Component Diagnostiscs
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Common A/C System Failure Symptoms: Identifying Key Warning Signs
Common A/C System Diagnostic Areas and Warning Signs
Refrigerant Level
Signs of Failure:
- Warm air coming from vents
- A/C system cycling on and off frequently
- Visible refrigerant leaks (appears as oily residue near connections)
Service Schedule: Check refrigerant levels annually, typically during spring maintenance.
Compressor
Signs of Failure:
- Loud noises when A/C is running
- System won't turn on
- Clutch not engaging
- Hot air from vents
Service Schedule: Inspect during annual maintenance. Typical lifespan is 8-12 years with proper maintenance.
Condenser
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- High pressure readings
- Visible damage or debris
- Leaks around the unit
Service Schedule: Clean annually and inspect for damage during routine maintenance.
Evaporator
Signs of Failure:
- Warm air from vents
- Strange odors
- Water leaks inside vehicle
- Frost buildup on the unit
Service Schedule: Clean every 2-3 years or when symptoms appear.
Expansion Valve
Signs of Failure:
- Inconsistent cooling
- Frost on A/C components
- Higher than normal pressure readings
Service Schedule: Inspect during annual maintenance, replace as needed.
Blower Motor
Signs of Failure:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Unusual noises when running
- No air coming from vents
- Multiple speed settings not working
Service Schedule: Inspect annually, clean or replace cabin air filter every 15,000-25,000 miles.
Electrical Components
Signs of Failure:
- System won't turn on
- Intermittent operation
- Control panel not responding
- Blown fuses
Service Schedule: Test during annual maintenance, repair as needed.
Important Note: Regular maintenance can prevent most major A/C system failures and extend the life of your vehicle's air conditioning system. We recommend a complete A/C system inspection at least once per year, ideally before the summer season begins.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
