Service, Repairs & MOT

Air con regas

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  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

Why choose the RAC for an aircon regas?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Book an air con regas

Over time, your vehicle’s air conditioning can become less efficient, leaving you uncomfortable and warm in hot weather. An aircon regas service will top up the refrigerant in your air conditioning system keeping you cool on the road.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

Introduction

Keeping your car's air conditioning working properly is very important. Over time, the gas in your air con can deplete. This affects how well it works, making the car less comfortable for everyone inside. A car air con regas restores this gas, making the system work properly again.

How an air con regas works

The air con regas process involves several steps:

  • Inspection: The system is inspected for any leaks or damage.
  • Recovery: The old gas is removed. 
  • Vacuum test: The system is tested for leaks. They do this by creating a vacuum. 
  • Recharge: The system is refilled with the correct amount of gas. 
  • Performance check: The air con system is tested to make sure it works.

Signs an air con regas is needed 

You might need an air con regas if you notice: 

  • Reduced cooling efficiency.
  • The air is not as cold as it used to be.
  • Strange noises.
  • Unusual sounds when the air con is running.
  • Unpleasant smells.
  • A musty or foul odour from the vents.
  • Foggy windows.
  • Increased humidity inside the car can lead to foggy windows.

Whether an air con needs a service, repair, or replacement 

Service: Routine maintenance so it runs well. 

Repair: Fixing minor issues like leaks or damaged parts. 

Replacement: Needed for major failures or if the system is too old.

What an air con regas service includes

A typical air con regas service includes:

  • Inspection: Checking for leaks and damage. 
  • Recovery: Removing old gas. 
  • Vacuum testing: Making sure the system is leak-free.
  • Recharging: Adding new gas.
  • Performance testing: Verifying the system works correctly.

Remember that different garages may carry out slightly different checks to above. Speak with your mechanic to understand what services they’ll provide.

Air con regas service cost

The cost of an air con regas service varies based on: 

  • Vehicle type: Different cars use different amounts of gas. 
  • Service location: Prices may vary by location and service provider. On average, expect to pay between £50 and £150 for a standard regas service. 

It’s important to remember that different garages and mechanics will have different prices to what’s mentioned above. You should speak with your mechanic to find out more.

Air con repair cost

If your air con system needs repairs, costs can vary:

  • Air con repair cost: Fixing leaks or replacing small components can cost £100-£300.
  • Major repairs: Larger issues like compressor failure can be more expensive, typically costing £400-£800.

It’s important to remember that different garages and mechanics will have different prices to what’s mentioned above. You should speak with your mechanic to find out more. 

Air con replacement cost

Costs can range from £500 to over £1,000 depending on the vehicle and the extent of the work required.

Regular regassing is vital for keeping your car comfortable. It also keeps your air con in good condition. When you fix issues early, you can avoid problems later on.

Frequently asked questions on air con regas

You should have it done by a professional to ensure proper handling and avoid potential damage.

The cost to refill a car's AC typically ranges from £50 to £150, depending on the vehicle and service provider.

An air con regas usually costs between £50 and £150, with prices varying based on the type of vehicle and the location of the service.

The process involves recovering the old gas, vacuum testing for leaks, and recharging the system with new gas.

An air con regas typically lasts about 1-2 years, depending on usage and vehicle condition.

Reasons include low gas levels, leaks, or issues with the compressor or other components. 

Regular cleaning and maintenance can stop unpleasant smells. This can be changing the cabin filter and using air con cleaners.

Air con gas is a gas used to absorb and release heat. This allows the car to cool.

You should regas your car's air con every 1-2 years.

Yes, air con can be fitted in cars that don’t have them. It can be costly and complex though. 

Car air con to produce some water due to condensation, but excessive leaking can mean a problem.

An air con system works by gas absorbing heat from the car's inside and releasing it outside. This cools the car inside.