How much does it cost to replace the evaporator on a Dodge Ram 1500?
Replacing the evaporator—also known as the evaporator core—in a Dodge Ram 1500 is a major HVAC repair because it sits deep inside the dash and requires significant interior disassembly. Prices vary widely by model year, local labor rates, and whether additional components are involved.
Typical total costs generally fall in a broad range of about $900 to $2,500, with most customers paying roughly $1,200 to $1,900 for a standard job that includes parts, labor, and refrigerant handling. Extremely high quotes can occur if the dash needs extensive work or if an HVAC module is replaced.
In more detail, the evaporator replacement on a Ram 1500 usually involves accessing the evaporator by removing parts of the dashboard, replacing the core, possibly refreshing the receiver/drier and expansion valve, evacuating and recharging the system with refrigerant, and performing leak checks and a functional test. Depending on the year and configuration, some shops may replace the entire HVAC housing instead of just the core, which can push the price higher. Refrigerant recovery and environmental fees are standard parts of the job.
Cost overview
Below is a typical breakdown of what drives the price for an evaporator replacement on a Ram 1500.
- Parts: evaporator core, receiver/drier, expansion valve or orifice tube, hoses/o-rings
- Labor: hours required to disassemble the dash, access the evaporator, replace components, and reassemble
- Refrigerant handling: recovery of old refrigerant, vacuum testing, and recharging with refrigerant
- Miscellaneous fees: diagnostic fees, shop supplies, and environmental disposal
Prices can vary, but understanding the breakdown helps you compare quotes and avoid surprises. If you’re quoted well above typical ranges, ask what’s driving the extra cost and whether the entire HVAC unit is being replaced or only the core.
Factors that influence price
Several factors determine the final bill for evaporator replacement on a Ram 1500. Here is a rundown of the most influential ones.
- Model year and generation: Different Ram 1500 generations have different dash layouts and levels of accessibility, which affects labor time.
- Dash complexity and access: More complex interiors or additional components in the HVAC system can extend disassembly time.
- OEM vs aftermarket parts: OEM parts tend to be pricier but some shops offer reputable aftermarket cores that can reduce costs.
- Labor rate by region: Urban or high-cost areas typically charge more per hour than rural areas.
- Additional repairs: If the heater core, expansion valve, or accumulator/drier also need replacement or if refrigerant leaks are extensive, costs rise.
- Warranty and shop policies: Some shops include diagnostic and refrigerant fees in a package; others itemize separately.
Knowing these factors can help you anticipate price ranges and determine where to seek quotes. Always request an itemized estimate to see how much is going toward parts, labor, and refrigerant handling.
What to ask your shop when getting a quote
To get a clear comparison, ask for an written, itemized estimate that includes the core price, any additional parts, estimated labor hours, labor rate, refrigerant type and charge, diagnostic or shop fees, and warranty terms on the work performed.
Summary
Replacing the evaporator on a Dodge Ram 1500 is a substantial repair driven by dash access, component longevity, and refrigerant handling. Expect a ballpark range from about $900 to $2,500, with typical jobs landing around $1,200 to $1,900 depending on year, location, and whether other HVAC parts are involved. Get multiple quotes, confirm what’s included, and ensure proper refrigerant evacuation and system leak testing as part of the service.
