Car AC evaporator replacement cost
The average car AC evaporator replacement costs $1,351 – $1,891 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $436 – $549 and labor about $915 – $1,342.
Quick answer
$1,351 – $1,891parts and labor
Most drivers pay $1,351 – $1,891. On popular models the estimate ranges from $1,255 to $2,326, depending on the vehicle.
Average car AC evaporator replacement cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $436 – $549 |
| Labor | $915 – $1,342 |
| Total (national average) | $1,351 – $1,891 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$915–$1,34270%
- Parts$436–$54930%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | $1,255 – $1,853 |
| Ford F-150 | $1,269 – $1,767 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $1,662 – $2,326 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
The evaporator is the small radiator behind the dashboard that cools the cabin air. On most cars, reaching it means removing much of the dashboard, which is why labor is more than half the bill.
Warning signs
- Leak traced to the evaporator
- Weak cooling with a sweet or musty smell in the cabin
- Oily residue at the evaporator drain
What changes the price
- Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
- Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
- The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
- Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.
How to pay less
- Get a leak test that pinpoints the evaporator before approving dash removal.
- Replace the heater core at the same time if it is old or leaking; the labor overlaps on many cars.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does car AC evaporator replacement cost?
About $1,351 to $1,891 on average at a repair shop, including $436 to $549 for parts and $915 to $1,342 for labor, before taxes and fees.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.