A/C compressor replace incl. drier and flush (Japanese / Korean car / SUV): how much does it cost?

Q: How much does a/c compressor replace incl. drier and flush (japanese / korean car / suv) cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$990–NZ$1,990 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$960–A$1,930 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Typically NZ$990–NZ$1,990 in New Zealand and A$960–A$1,930 in Australia, including GST. Most cars.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$450–NZ$950	2.5–4.5 h	—	NZ$990–NZ$1,990
Australia	A$420–A$900	2.5–4.5 h	—	A$960–A$1,930

Totals use a standard workshop rate of NZ$120 or A$140 an hour and a 25% parts markup, plus GST. Your workshop's rate and parts prices will differ.

What affects the price

Aftermarket new compressor plus receiver-drier, oil and o-rings; hours include evacuate, flush and recharge (add gas cost). Metal debris from a failed unit can mean a condenser and TXV too.

Other electrical repairs

12 V battery replace, standard flooded (small / medium car)NZ$190–NZ$330
12 V battery replace, standard flooded (SUV / ute / 4WD)NZ$290–NZ$500
12 V battery replace, EFB / AGM start-stop (Japanese / Korean)NZ$340–NZ$710
12 V AGM battery replace with battery registration / coding (European)NZ$440–NZ$830
Alternator replace (small / medium car, petrol)NZ$510–NZ$1,020
Alternator replace (SUV / ute / diesel)NZ$750–NZ$1,560
Alternator replace (European, smart charging)NZ$930–NZ$2,130
Starter motor replace (small / medium car)NZ$500–NZ$970
Starter motor replace (SUV / ute / European)NZ$780–NZ$1,850
A/C evacuate, vacuum test and regas (R134a, older cars)NZ$150–NZ$290

Researched by Credov in October 2026 from NZ and Australian parts suppliers and workshop price guides. Typical ranges, not quotes: ask a workshop for a quote before you rely on a price. All repair costs.