Car AC not cooling? Before reaching the mechanic, know the real cost of gas refilling, it will save you from losing your pocket.

As soon as summer comes, car AC becomes not a luxury but a necessity. During the scorching heat of many people’s car, the AC of the car suddenly reduces the cooling or stops completely. In such a situation, the first thought that comes to our mind is ‘running out of gas’.

However, before going to the mechanic, it is important to know what is the real cost of AC gas refilling and whether you are becoming a victim of fraud? Many times the problem is small, but due to lack of information the mechanics charge you thousands of rupees. Let us know how this process can be done ourselves.

Average cost of car AC gas refilling

The cost of gas refilling of car AC in India mainly depends on two things – the quality of the gas and the model of your car. Generally two types of refrigerant gases are used in the market, in which R134a is the most common. The breakdown of expenses is as follows-

1. Hatchbacks and sedans (like Swift, i20, Dzire): Their gas refilling cost can range between ₹ 1,200 to ₹ 2,500.
2. SUVs and luxury vehicles (like Fortuner,

Just filling gas is not enough, checking for leakage is necessary

If the AC of your car is not cooling, then in 90% of the cases there is a problem of gas leakage. AC gas never ‘runs out’, it only leaks. If you want to know if gas is leaking, follow the steps given below-

1. Leakage Testing: Ask the mechanic to check for leakage before filling the gas. There may be a separate charge of ₹ 300-₹ 500. If gas is filled without repairing the leakage, the gas will leak out again in 15 days and your money will be wasted.

2. Compressor Oil: While refilling gas, some ‘compressor oil’ is also added. Make sure the mechanic is including it, so that the compressor runs smooth.

How can mechanics fool you?

Often mechanics fear that the compressor will directly get damaged due to less cooling. The cost of replacing the compressor can range from ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 20,000. Before agreeing to replace the compressor, take a ‘second opinion’ from another mechanic. Many times, cooling gets reduced simply due to the AC filter (cabin filter) being dirty or mud accumulating on the condenser.

Keep these things in mind to save money

• Service Center Vs Local Mechanic: The cost at an authorized service center may be 20-30% more, but the purity and warranty of the gas is guaranteed there.
• Condenser cleaning: Before refilling the gas, get the condenser cleaned with pressure wash. This improves heat exchange and increases cooling.
• Brand of AC Gas: Always fill only standard brand gas. Cheap or local gas can reduce the life of the compressor.

Next time you go to a mechanic, keep these rates and things in mind. Only correct information can save you from losing your pocket.