Too much money to fix AC?

I took my 08 Ford escape hybrid to service because the AC only blows cold air on the freeway. They told me I have a leak in my condenser and that it would cost $1200… Parts, labor and tax included. Is that too much?

Added (1). BTW this quote is coming from the Ford dealership

That's insanely expensive. As of the current moment it's measuring winter so air conditioning is not really needed. Find a decent hole in the wall shop. Typically those are more honest. You'll see a substantial savings.

I think you need a second opinion. While this either is correct or not, and from what I know, without further information, there's some doubt. Last time a car I had did not have heat or not enough heat, the cause was a bad thermostat. I have the 08 Mercury Mariner ( please capitalize the brand and model names of cars) and there's no temperature gauge to indicate engine temperature. Of course, a malfunction in the controls could have this effect. As to the condenser, it is possible to have a leak in the condenser, but would this result in no heat? Ford dealerships charge like dealerships. At times, if there's no alternative, you have to pay. I was on a trip when the water pump of the hybrid battery system failed. The engine stopped. I got it started and limped into a Ford dealership. I was quoted $365. No alternative. The pump is now subject of a "recall" but it is a $65 item that takes about one hour to replace, once the engine is cooled as the coolant must be drained and captured. Even at $125 an hour for a mechanic, this repair should not have been this much. Please go somewhere else for an analysis as to this issue.

I disagree on diagnosis. I fear that you are being ripped off. I say low on coolant, or a clogged filter. Find another shop.

You probably have a small leak if you still have some refrigerant in the system. Most small leaks can be attributed to leaky hoses, seals or valves, not the condenser. You can put some UV dye in your system and find the leak with a UV light. I would never take a mechanic's word that a bad condenser would leak this slowly. I would definitely get another opinion. BTW, the Ford dealership near my house has some good mechanics but they are very expensive.

Check your oscillation adjustment screw.

Wow, the high priced cost of Ford Ownership. A Chevrolet Dealer just quoted me $635.00 parts and labor to replace the air conditioner condenser in my Winter beater 99 Grand Prix.