PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
AC Low-Pressure Hose Replacement Cost Estimate
AC Low-Pressure Hose Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your AC low-pressure hose replacement? Use Jerry’s GarageGuard™ to get fair cost estimate for your AC low-pressure hose replacement.
Get Fair Repair Cost Estimate
No spam
Compare shops near you
Always know how much you should pay
John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does it cost to replace an AC low-pressure hose?
- Where can I get my AC low-pressure hose replaced?
- How do you replace a low-pressure hose on an air conditioner?
- What happens if I don’t replace my AC low-pressure hose?
- What is an AC low-pressure hose?
- How do I know if my AC low-pressure hose is bad?
- Can I replace the AC low-pressure hose myself?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
Load full table of contents
How much does it cost to replace an AC low-pressure hose?
The average replacement cost for an AC low-pressure hose is $564, with $210 for parts and $353 for mechanic labor. Prices vary depending on your vehicle and labor costs in your area.
How long does it take to replace an AC low-pressure hose? It typically takes about 3.0 hours for a certified mechanic to do the replacement. This includes the time it takes them to do a diagnostic inspection first.
Check out this overview of AC low-pressure hose replacement costs for different vehicles:
| Estimate Date | Customer | Car | Fair Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Labor Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
November 13, 2024 | Jimmy, 25 Syracuse, NY | Saab 45172 | $344 | $135 | $209 | 1.9 Hours |
November 9, 2024 | Steve, 32 Providence, RI | Geo Metro | $351 | $135 | $216 | 1.9 Hours |
November 7, 2024 | Leon, 36 Chicago, IL | Chevrolet Silverado | $358 | $135 | $223 | 1.9 Hours |
November 5, 2024 | Phoebe, 40 Westfield, IN | Mercury Sable | $386 | $150 | $236 | 1.9 Hours |
November 3, 2024 | Hattie, 42 Baton Rouge, LA | Chrysler Chysler Town | $376 | $150 | $226 | 1.9 Hours |
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, 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 mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, 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 mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my AC low-pressure hose replacement?
Check your owner’s manual to find the replacement hose part number, or ask your mechanic to find the part. To do a hose replacement, here’s what you’ll need:
- New AC low-pressure hose: This blue AC hose is larger than its red, high pressure counterpart. Replacement hoses typically cost between $150 and $200.
You’ll also need refrigerant, but the EPA limits its sale to certified technicians. Most auto shops or dealership service centers include refrigerant in your repair bill.
In addition to the new hose and refrigerant, a mechanic uses specialized tools like end wrenches, socket and ratchet sets, vacuum pump, and attachments for AC lines.
Top brands for low-pressure hoses include Four Seasons, UAC, and ACDelco. You can purchase all these parts for your car from retailers such as AutoZone, Amazon, and Advance Auto Parts.
Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
If you’re on a tight budget, an aftermarket part might be the way to go. It’s also a good option if you can’t easily get an OEM part. However, if you install an aftermarket part, you could risk voiding the warranty.
Where can I buy parts for my AC low-pressure hose replacement?
Head to an auto body shop or auto part store like AutoZone or Advance Auto Parts. If your local shop doesn’t have the part in stock, they can order it for you, or you can find it on Amazon. Remember to check your owner’s manual for the replacement part that matches your vehicle.
Where can I get my AC low-pressure hose replaced?
When it’s hot, and you’re uncomfortable, you want car repairs done fast! Instead of spending time calling and researching auto shops or dealership service centers, let Jerry's
GarageGuard™
do the work. Download the free app to quickly compare costs from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in the US. Here’s how it works. Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates* from every shop using their actual hourly labor rate. You’ll also see what’s included in the service cost so that you can make an accurate budget. GarageGuard™ also shows reviews from customers to help you make your decision.
Take a look at some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes near you.
156 Reviews
Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center - Fort Wayne (W. Jefferson Blvd.)
5624 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN
AC Low Pressure Hose Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$522
(Parts - $185, Labor - $337)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$75196 Reviews
Dulles Shell Service Center
45410 Holiday Dr, Great Falls, VA
AC Low Pressure Hose Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$525
(Parts - $185, Labor - $340)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$64152 Reviews
Velasquez Auto Care - Morgan
5811 W Capitol Dr, Milwaukee, WI
AC Low Pressure Hose Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$486
(Parts - $185, Labor - $301)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$35176 Reviews
Kenny and Billy's Auto Center
473 Iselin, NJ
AC Low Pressure Hose Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$557
(Parts - $185, Labor - $372)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$130How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. 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. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. 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. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How do you replace a low-pressure hose on an air conditioner?
Once the mechanic has diagnosed the problem with your AC system and identified the faulty low-pressure hose, here’s how they’ll replace it:
- Evacuate refrigerant from the AC system
- Remove the AC low-pressure hose
- Check that the new low-pressure hose matches the old hose
- Install the new AC low-pressure hose
- Recharge the AC system
- Check the vehicle for system leaks
- Test the AC system
Good to know: To make their diagnosis, a mechanic uses a manifold gauge to measure the pressure in the low-pressure and high-pressure hoses. Then, they’ll visually examine the entire AC system for refrigerant leaks.
What happens if I don’t replace my AC low-pressure hose?
If you continue to try to use the AC system with a leaking hose, it will keep leaking refrigerant and could damage other AC components. More damage to the system means higher repair bills, so don’t wait to fix the AC low-pressure hose!
In some vehicles, the system blends hot and cold air for custom climate control. If the AC fails in one of these systems, it disrupts the whole temperature system.
What is an AC low-pressure hose?
Your car’s AC works using a system of high- and low-pressure hoses that are connected to the evaporator, AC condenser, dryer, and AC compressor. The low-pressure hose is one of the vital hoses that carries refrigerant throughout the system. It’s also called a suction side hose.
Here’s how refrigerant moves through the AC system (starting in no particular order). The system draws in hot air, and the evaporator coil absorbs the heat. The liquid refrigerant in the coil turns into a gas and heads to the compressor. To get there, it travels through the low pressure hose.
The compressor squeezes the refrigerant gas to raise the refrigerant’s pressure. Then, it moves to the condenser, where it comes into contact with outside air. The outside air absorbs the heat, which lowers the refrigerant temperature and makes it shift back into a liquid.
The cold refrigerant liquid travels back through the expansion valve and into the evaporator, where the cycle begins again.
If the AC low-pressure hose begins to malfunction, your entire AC system may be in trouble. If left untreated, your air conditioning system could suffer substantial damages.
How do I know if my AC low-pressure hose is bad?
You’ll probably realize pretty quickly that something is wrong with your car’s air conditioning. Here are signs that the AC low-pressure hose is causing the problems:
- The air conditioning isn’t as cold as it should be: If you’re still getting some cool air, just not as much as you’d like, the low-pressure hose might be leaking.
- There are crimps or kinks in the hose: Inspect the low-pressure hose for signs of damage. Bends in the hose prevent refrigerant from flowing into the compressor.
- The AC doesn’t work at all: The low side moves refrigerant to the compressor, so if the low-pressure hose is bad, the system can’t make cold air.
- Refrigerant leaks on the hose: While it’s easier to spot leaks from the high-pressure hose, low-pressure hose leaks appear as a greasy film. Look near the fittings to identify a leaking low-pressure hose.
How often should an AC low-pressure hose be replaced?
AC low-pressure hoses typically last eight to ten years before they need to be replaced. The older the hose is, the more likely it is to leak.
Keep in mind: AC pressure hoses aren’t inspected as part of regular maintenance. If you suspect a problem with your air conditioning system, get the hoses inspected.
Can I replace the AC low-pressure hose myself?
Replacang the hose is a bit more complex than just swapping out parts. Doing the work requires releasing the refrigerant from your car’s AC, and there are EPA regulations about how to do this safely, so it’s not a good DIY project. It’s best to leave the hose replacement to a mechanic who specializes in AC repair.
FAQs
What causes a bad AC low-pressure hose?
Over time, standard wear and tear can cause a low pressure hose to crack. The refrigerant that passes through the hose is corrosive so it will wear out the inside of the hose.
Are all AC hoses the same size?
No, the low-pressure hoses are bigger in diameter, while the high-pressure hoses are smaller.
What color is the low-side AC hose?
Most hose manufacturers make the lo- pressure hoses blue and the high-pressure hoses red.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.