How Much Is a Honda AC Compressor?

In the U.S. as of 2025, a Honda AC compressor typically costs about $250–$600 for a quality aftermarket unit and $550–$1,100 for an OEM unit; installed totals usually run $900–$2,000 depending on model, labor rates, and whether related parts (like the condenser and dryer) are replaced. Prices vary by vehicle, region, and whether the system uses R-134a or R-1234yf refrigerant.

What You’ll Pay for the Part

Compressor pricing hinges on brand, whether it’s new or remanufactured, and if your Honda uses a conventional belt-driven compressor or an electric unit (found in many hybrids). Denso is the common OEM supplier for Honda; buying a new Denso compressor often matches dealer-level quality without the dealer markup.

• Aftermarket new (non-OEM): $250–$600
• OEM new (Honda/Denso): $550–$1,100
• Remanufactured: $300–$700
• Hybrid/electric compressors (e.g., Accord Hybrid, Insight): $800–$1,400

Choosing OEM generally adds cost but can improve fit, longevity, and warranty support. Reman units can save money if backed by a strong warranty and proper system preparation.

Estimated Installed Cost

Beyond the compressor, professional replacement includes evacuating the system, adding the correct oil, recharging refrigerant, and often replacing related components to protect your warranty. Labor and supplies make up a significant share of the bill.

1. Labor: 2.0–4.5 hours typical; at $120–$220/hour = roughly $240–$990
2. Refrigerant and service: R-134a recharge $80–$200; R-1234yf $200–$450
3. Consumables: PAG or OEM-specified oil, dye, O-rings $15–$50
4. Diagnostics, recovery/evacuation: $150–$350

With parts and labor, most Honda compressor jobs total $900–$2,000. Hybrids, 1234yf systems, or cases requiring a new condenser and expansion device can approach $2,200 or more.

Price Ranges by Popular Honda Models

Model-to-model differences, engine bay layout, and part availability influence both part and installed costs. These are typical U.S. ranges for part-only and installed totals.

• Civic (all gas models): Part $300–$650 aftermarket, $650–$1,000 OEM; installed $1,000–$1,700
• Accord (gas): Part $350–$700 aftermarket, $700–$1,050 OEM; installed $1,050–$1,800
• Accord Hybrid/Insight/Clarity (electric compressor): Part $800–$1,300; installed $1,600–$2,400
• CR-V: Part $350–$750 aftermarket, $700–$1,100 OEM; installed $1,100–$1,900
• Odyssey: Part $400–$800 aftermarket, $800–$1,100 OEM; installed $1,200–$2,000
• Pilot/Passport/Ridgeline: Part $400–$800 aftermarket, $800–$1,100 OEM; installed $1,200–$2,000
• Fit/HR-V: Part $300–$600 aftermarket, $650–$950 OEM; installed $950–$1,600

Older CR-V and Odyssey models with known compressor failures may require more extensive clean-up and additional parts, nudging totals higher.

Factors That Change the Price

Several technical and market dynamics can shift your final price up or down.

• Refrigerant type: 2017+ models often use R-1234yf, which is costlier to service than R-134a
• Hybrid vs. non-hybrid: Electric compressors and special oils increase costs
• Warranty requirements: Some warranties mandate new condenser, dryer, and expansion device
• Labor rates: Urban and dealership rates trend higher than independent shops
• System contamination: “Black death” debris requires flushing and extra parts
• Season and region: Summer demand and hot climates can raise prices

Confirm the exact refrigerant and any required companion parts for your VIN to avoid surprises.

What Else Might Need Replacing

To protect a new compressor and validate warranties, shops often recommend additional components—especially if the old unit failed internally.

• Condenser: $150–$400; modern micro-tube designs can’t be fully flushed
• Receiver/dryer or desiccant bag: $20–$80; absorbs moisture and is often required by warranty
• Expansion valve/orifice tube: $40–$150; can clog with debris
• O-ring/seal kit: $10–$25; prevents leaks when lines are disturbed
• System flush and correct oil: Essential to prevent repeat failure

Replacing these items during the job adds cost but significantly reduces the risk of damaging a new compressor.

Buying and Warranty Tips

Choosing the right part and following warranty procedures can save money over the long term.

• Prefer Denso or OEM-equivalent brands; verify clutch is included if needed
• Consider a complete kit (compressor, condenser, dryer, expansion valve, seals) for value and warranty compliance
• Document flush, oil type/amount, and component replacements to preserve warranty
• Match the correct oil: PAG for most non-hybrids; specialized POE/ND-OIL 11 for many Honda hybrids’ electric compressors
• Confirm R-134a vs. R-1234yf before buying refrigerant or service
• Reman units are viable if backed by a reputable supplier and proper install steps

Good paperwork and correct fluids are as important as the compressor itself in avoiding repeat failures.

DIY or Professional?

While skilled DIYers can handle mechanical removal/installation, AC service requires specialized tools and certifications for refrigerant handling.

1. Recover refrigerant (EPA Section 609 certified equipment required)
2. Replace compressor and any mandated components; install new O-rings
3. Flush lines (where allowed), add exact oil charge
4. Vacuum the system for at least 30 minutes to boil off moisture
5. Recharge with the precise refrigerant weight and verify performance

If you lack recovery/vacuum equipment or are working on a hybrid’s high-voltage e-compressor, professional service is strongly recommended.

Signs Your Compressor May Have Failed

Before committing to replacement, confirm symptoms point to the compressor rather than a sensor, blend door, or fan issue.

• Loud grinding or rattling from the compressor area
• Clutch won’t engage or cycles rapidly; high-side pressure off-spec
• Weak or no cooling despite proper fan operation
• Metallic debris in the system or contaminated oil

A shop can perform pressure tests and scan for HVAC codes to pinpoint the fault and avoid unnecessary parts.

Where to Check Current Prices

For real-time pricing by VIN, compare multiple reputable sources and confirm stock.

• Honda dealer parts portals (OEM pricing and latest superseded part numbers)
• Major retailers: RockAuto, NAPA, Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone
• Online marketplaces: Prefer listings from known brands (e.g., Denso) with clear warranties
• Local AC specialty shops: Often bundle parts, refrigerant, and labor competitively

Always cross-check warranty terms—many require proof of dryer/condenser replacement and system evacuation.

Bottom Line

Expect to pay $250–$1,100 for a Honda AC compressor depending on brand and model, with installed totals commonly landing between $900 and $2,000. Hybrid models and 1234yf systems sit on the higher end. Choosing quality components, replacing required companion parts, and following correct installation procedures are key to a reliable, warrantied repair.

Is it worth replacing a car AC compressor?

Yes, it’s worth it. Can you get it done cheaper? Probably, but it’s not always to the same standard. If your compressor failed, there are other parts that should be changed also. Any shop will charge 1200 to 1500 for a complete ac job. So you’re looking at a 20% difference for peace of mind.

How long do Honda AC compressors last?

between 10 and 12 years
Although the average lifespan of a car AC compressor is between 10 and 12 years, the compressor clutch could fail earlier than that. Unfortunately, a failed clutch means you need a whole new compressor—they’re inseparable.

How much does it cost to replace a Honda AC compressor?

The average cost for a Honda Civic AC Compressor Replacement is between $928 and $1,484. Labor costs are estimated between $322 and $473 while parts are priced between $606 and $1,012.

How to tell if a Honda AC compressor is bad?

Common Signs of a Faulty Honda AC Compressor

1. Poor Cabin Cooling. This is one of the most obvious signs of a faulty air conditioning unit.
2. Unusual Noises.
3. Refrigerant Leaks.
4. Identify the Cause of the Problem.
5. Fix Minor Issues.
6. Replace the AC Compressor.