The price of maintaining car air conditioning systems in Russia rose by 36 percent over the past year, reaching 11.5 thousand rubles. This information comes from Izvestia, citing Oleg Bachmanov, Marketing Director at Fit Service. The rise reflects broader pressure on service costs and the necessary consumables to refill cooling systems, which have climbed sharply in the last twelve months.
According to Bachmanov, last year saw a marked uptick in the cost of consumables and equipment required for recharging air conditioners. In addition, the standard hourly labor rate in vehicle services increased, and staff salaries rose as well. These combined factors have contributed to the higher overall price for AC maintenance, a trend echoed by industry observers across the market. The demand for car air conditioning servicing has also climbed, rising 23 percent since the start of July compared with the prior year, signaling growing utilization of cooling systems as the hot months return and vehicles age. This surge in demand aligns with consumer expectations of more frequent upkeep to maintain comfort and system efficiency, especially in regions with long hot seasons.
Experts also point to the role of refrigerants in pushing service costs higher. Freon, the primary component used for refilling air conditioning systems, accounts for a substantial portion of maintenance expenses. Service center representatives noted that refrigerant pricing has more than doubled since winter, moving from around 7 thousand rubles per cylinder to a range of 16–22 thousand rubles. This dramatic increase not only affects the cost of each service visit but also pressures the long-term affordability of maintaining older or high-mileage vehicles, where AC use is more frequent and critical for comfort and safety during extreme heat.
Looking beyond maintenance, industry commentators consider how overall vehicle pricing might respond to these shifts in costs. Market watchers have suggested that price levels for new imported cars could rise by around 250 thousand rubles, with AvtoVAZ expected to increase prices by at least 100 thousand rubles. Used car prices may experience a parallel uptick. Analysts note that higher recycling fees and changes in central bank policies could dampen overall demand for new and used vehicles, potentially influencing the pace of market recovery as households reassess transportation budgets in light of rising operating costs, including AC maintenance and parts. The broader implication is a tighter market for automobiles, where total ownership costs become a more prominent factor in purchase decisions and vehicle longevity becomes a key consideration for buyers and sellers alike.
In response to these trends, industry voices have outlined practical guidance for car owners. They emphasize prudent use of air conditioning, regular service intervals, and early attention to refrigerant leaks and compressor performance to prevent costly failures. By following recommended maintenance schedules and staying attuned to refrigerant and component prices, drivers can manage total ownership costs more effectively. Consumers are encouraged to consult trusted service centers that provide transparent estimates and verified parts, helping to mitigate the impact of price fluctuations on overall vehicle upkeep.