Air con service - is this necessary?

[sjw]

Got a text from the dealers the other day saying that my car was due for an air con service. Now, I didn't realise there was such a thing, and I've heard people say before, if your air con is working, don't bother. However, as my car is on PCP, is it worth doing?

[Will2018]

I had the same following my service recently. Don’t think I’ll be bothering. My AC is always on. Blows icy cold when required and is free of odour.

[SRGTD]

Air con service is a recommendation, not a requirement. I dare say that the VW service advisors have a monthly or quarterly target to upsell the air con service to customers, so they’ll always try and get you to buy it. They probably get a bonus or commission if they meet or exceed their air con service sales target.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, but do use it (I keep mine on 24/7) to keep it in good health.

However, looking to the future, I think getting the air con service done might be more important with fully electric cars, as some - if not all - use the car’s air con system to keep the batteries cool, so keeping the air con in tip top condition would be important.

[Watts]

Mine was working fine but they offered such a cheap price as part of a service I went for it. Was definitely better afterwards so worthwhile for what I paid. Mind you I do drive with the windows open quite often in the summer so it's not on constantly.

[2007GTI]

I was told the system looses 20% gas per year.  I had mine done at an independent for £60+VAT at year 5 (2 years after purchase), the later cars cost more as the gas is different apparently.

I thought it was cold already, but after it was done, the difference was amazing, much colder for sure, this was in the summer when it was boiling.

However if on PCP, presuming under 3 years old and you will hand back, I'd leave it.

[Rob_benton]

Systems can lose pressure over time and I believe moisture can be introduced over time which isn’t good.

For a few pounds every few years I think it’s worth it. Compared to paying out for leaking seal, pipes and compressor. 

I recently got a groupon deal at £30 half price at ATS.

[Catnapper]

Turned mine down too, if it ain't broke don't touch it.
However, I think I've read elsewhere that it also lubricates the system (ready to be corrected!!)
Plenty of offers will be around come the summer months.

[dubber36]

I agree with the PCP thing. There's no need to do anymore than is absolutely necessary, as unless you intend to keep it after the agreement term, it's not 'really' you car.

[Vwjap]

Systems can lose pressure over time and I believe moisture can be introduced over time which isn’t good.

For a few pounds every few years I think it’s worth it. Compared to paying out for leaking seal, pipes and compressor. 

I recently got a groupon deal at £30 half price at ATS.

i think vw wanted £180 to refresh mine

[SRGTD]

Systems can lose pressure over time and I believe moisture can be introduced over time which isn’t good.

For a few pounds every few years I think it’s worth it. Compared to paying out for leaking seal, pipes and compressor. 

I recently got a groupon deal at £30 half price at ATS.

i think vw wanted £180 to refresh mine

That’s expensive! . VW’s website is showing a price of £139 (also sounds expensive to me) for an air con service, including refresh.