Professional Aircon Diagnostics Done Correctly
Modern vehicle air-conditioning systems require precise handling to avoid damage and poor performance. Our workshop-based aircon diagnostics and servicing process focuses on proper refrigerant recovery, vacuum testing and precision recharging to manufacturer specifications.
When should your vehicle aircon be serviced?
Vehicle air-conditioning systems do not require regular regassing as part of routine maintenance. In a properly sealed system, refrigerant does not get “used up”. Aircon servicing is typically required when there is a noticeable change in performance or when the system has not been checked in a long time. Common signs your aircon may need servicing include: •Cooling is weaker than normal •Takes longer to get cold •Aircon performance is inconsistent •The system has not been serviced in several years If refrigerant levels are low, it is usually due to gradual leakage over time rather than normal operation. For this reason, diagnostics and system testing are always performed before any recharging is carried out. How long aircon refrigerant lasts varies from vehicle to vehicle. Some systems operate correctly for many years without needing recharging, while others may require attention sooner due to age, wear or minor leaks.
What This Service Includes
Our aircon diagnostics and servicing process is designed to assess system condition before any corrective work is performed. This ensures the system is safe to recharge and operates as intended.
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Recovery of existing refrigerant
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Deep vacuum process to remove air and moisture
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Vacuum hold testing to check system integrity
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Oil balance correction where applicable
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Precision refrigerant recharging by weight
Each step is performed using professional equipment in a controlled workshop environment.
Mechanical Repairs & System Faults
Our service focuses on aircon diagnostics and corrective servicing only.
Before any refrigerant is added, the system is assessed to ensure it can safely hold pressure.
If the system fails integrity testing or shows signs of leakage or component failure, corrective recharging will not be carried out.
Mechanical aircon repairs are not performed on-site.
Where repairs are required, we will advise accordingly and recommend re-booking once repairs have been completed.
Suitable For
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Passenger vehicles
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SUVs and bakkies
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R134a & R1234yf air-conditioning systems
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Modern vehicles with sensitive HVAC systems
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Vehicles already booked in for detailing or workshop services
Pricing
Aircon Diagnostics & Servicing is priced in two parts:
🔧 1. Diagnostic & Service Fee — R550
This fee covers:
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Refrigerant recovery
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Vacuum process & moisture removal
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System integrity (vacuum hold) testing
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Machine time & technician time
This fee applies to all vehicles, regardless of outcome.
If a system does not pass integrity testing, corrective recharging will not be carried out, and the diagnostic fee still applies.
❄️ 2. Refrigerant Charge (by measured quantity used)
Refrigerant is charged by weight, as measured and recorded by the machine.
A service report / ticket is provided after completion.
Refrigerant rates:
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R134a: R140 per started 100g
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R1234yf: R380 per started 100g
Refrigerant is billed per started 100g unit. Actual quantities added are recorded on the service ticket.
Refrigerant is charged by weight, as measured and recorded by the machine.
A service report / ticket is provided after completion.
⚠️ Important
Flat-rate or blind regassing is not offered. Pricing reflects correct procedures, professional equipment use, and refrigerant cost — not shortcuts.
⏱ Service Duration
Aircon diagnostics and servicing typically takes approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on system condition and testing requirements.
Aircon servicing is subject to system integrity testing. Corrective recharging is only performed on systems that pass testing. Mechanical repairs are not performed on-site
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t you just top up the aircon gas?
Modern vehicle air-conditioning systems are sensitive and require proper recovery, vacuum testing and measured recharging. Blind top-ups can lead to poor performance, compressor damage, and moisture contamination. For this reason, we only service systems using a full diagnostic-led process.
What happens if my system has a leak or fault?
If a system fails integrity testing or cannot hold vacuum, corrective recharging will not be carried out. Mechanical repairs are required before servicing can continue. We will advise accordingly and the vehicle can be re-booked once repairs are completed.
Why is there a diagnostic fee even if no gas is added?
The diagnostic & service fee covers the recovery process, vacuum testing, system checks, machine time and technician time. These steps are required to assess the system safely, regardless of whether recharging is completed.
How do you know how much refrigerant is added?
Refrigerant is measured and charged by weight using professional equipment. The exact quantity added is recorded on the service ticket provided after completion.
Why is refrigerant billed per 100g unit?
Refrigerant is billed per started 100g unit to ensure accurate handling, correct procedures and consistency. Actual quantities added are always recorded on the service ticket for transparency.
How long does the service take?
Aircon diagnostics and servicing typically takes approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on system condition and testing requirements.
Is this service mobile?
No. Aircon diagnostics and servicing is performed at our workshop only. Professional aircon servicing requires controlled equipment and correct handling procedures and is offered by appointment only.
Do you do aircon repairs?
No. We specialise in diagnostics and corrective servicing only. Mechanical aircon repairs are not performed on-site.