AC Compressor Relay Replacement Cost Estimate
Concerned you might overpay for your AC compressor relay replacement? Use MyMechanic to get a fair cost estimate for your AC compressor relay replacement in Malaysia.
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How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor relay?
Your exact repair costs will depend on your car and location, but the average cost for an AC compressor relay replacement in Malaysia is variable. We can break that price down into expenses for replacement parts and the technician’s labor costs.
How long does it take to replace an AC compressor relay?
Replacing the relay is relatively easy and straightforward. Most mechanics in Malaysia should take less than 30 minutes to perform the service, but they may need to spend some time troubleshooting before they can pinpoint the relay as the cause of your problem.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do I need for my AC compressor relay replacement?
The only part you need for an AC compressor relay replacement is the new relay itself. Prices can vary, but you should be able to obtain a new one.
Some reputable options for reliable AC compressor relays are available. However, like price, recommended options may also vary depending on your vehicle's specific year, make, and model in Malaysia.
For most automotive repairs, it's advisable to opt for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts if available, particularly for newer vehicles.
OEM parts are tailored specifically for your vehicle, backed by a manufacturer’s warranty, and crafted from premium materials. However, they can be costly and challenging to locate.
Aftermarket parts can serve as a viable choice for older vehicles and individuals seeking to economize on repair expenses. The quality of aftermarket parts may fluctuate, offering a range from budget to premium options. If opting for an aftermarket part, prioritize products with favorable reviews and ensure compatibility by verifying the part number with your vehicle.
You can buy OEM parts from your local dealership or an authorized parts supplier. Aftermarket parts are available at a wide variety of auto parts stores and online retailers.
Where can I get my AC compressor relay replaced?
Finding a trustworthy auto repair shop can be difficult. Fortunately, MyMechanic lets you compare repair estimates and hourly rates from thousands of shops around Malaysia.
MyMechanic uses actual hourly rates from shops in your area to generate fair price estimates. Use it to plan for future maintenance work, learn about diagnostic charges, and find shops near you with the best reviews in Malaysia.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace my AC compressor relay?
Your mechanic will proceed with these steps to replace your AC compressor relay:
- Find the AC compressor relay, which is usually situated in the engine bay fuse box of most cars
- Remove the old relay
- Install the replacement AC compressor relay
- Start the engine and verify that the AC system blows cool air.
What happens if I don’t replace my AC compressor relay?
If you don’t replace a bad AC compressor relay, you’ll likely face the following problems:
- AC system failure:The AC compressor relay governs the air conditioning compressor's operation. If the relay malfunctions, the compressor may cease functioning, resulting in a non-operational AC system.
- Intermittent cooling:A failing relay can lead to intermittent operation of the compressor. You may observe instances where the AC functions intermittently, working at times but not consistently.
- AC compressor damage: A faulty relay can transmit abnormal electrical currents through the compressor. Eventually, this can result in compressor damage and costly AC repairs.
- Overheating relay: A malfunctioning relay can overheat and melt, potentially causing damage to other electrical components and leading to costly repairs.
- Reduced fuel efficiency: A faulty relay can impose additional strain on the compressor and engine, resulting in reduced gas mileage.
What is an AC compressor relay?
An AC compressor relay is an electric switch that controls the operation of your car’s AC compressor. It serves as a bridge between your AC controls and the compressor, allowing an electrical signal to activate the compressor when you turn on the AC system. This setup enables you to control the temperature settings and airflow from inside the cabin.
When should I replace the AC compressor relay on my car?
There isn't a set replacement schedule for the AC compressor relay. Instead, you only need to replace it when it malfunctions. Here are the most common signs of AC compressor relay failure:/p>
- Inconsistent cooling: If the relay is failing, your compressor may intermittently activate, resulting in inconsistent airflow. You may notice weak or irregular airflow.
- The compressor doesn’t turn on:Typically, when you activate your car’s AC system, you can hear the compressor engage and start operating. If the relay is faulty, the compressor won’t initiate, and you won’t hear the compressor clutch engage.
- AC system failure: If the AC compressor relay is faulty, the HVAC system won’t effectively cool your car’s cabin. In such instances, you'll likely observe hot air flowing from the vents.
How often should I replace my AC compressor relay?
There are no predetermined intervals for replacing the AC compressor relay, but the part is susceptible to wear and tear and may fail over time. You should replace your AC compressor relay when it no longer functions properly.
The most common indicators of AC compressor relay failure include warm air blowing from the AC system and intermittent cooling.
Can I replace my AC compressor relay myself?
Certainly—replacing an AC compressor relay is a great DIY project. It demands minimal automotive experience and doesn't require any special tools.
You can consult your vehicle owner’s manual or a repair guide to locate the relay—after that, it’s as straightforward as removing the old one and installing the new one.
That being said, if you're not confident in performing the repair yourself, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional mechanic.
FAQs
You might have a faulty AC compressor relay if you encounter any of the following problems:
- No cold air from the vents
- Intermittent cooling
- Clicking sounds from the fuse box
- The compressor doesn’t activate
- Electrical burning smell
- A melted or burnt relay
The average lifespan of a relay can fluctuate depending on its usage and type.
For electromechanical relays, the average lifespan can vary based on usage. A cycle refers to one complete actuation of the relay—when the relay turns the AC compressor on, and then off, one cycle is complete.
Solid-state relays, in contrast, utilize semiconductor technology, leading to significantly extended lifespans. These relays can endure for many cycles.
Yes—a bad AC compressor relay can drain your car battery due to the following reasons:
- Increased engine stress
- Increased alternator load
- Continuous engagement
- Electrical shorts
