Summer is in full swing, and that means one thing – hot, sticky weather. If you’re like most people, you probably rely on your car’s air conditioning to keep you cool during the summer months. But what do you do if your car air conditioning system starts acting up? In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common vehicle AC issues, how to prevent these issues, and when to contact professionals. Stay cool!
How Does the AC Work?
The auto air conditioning system is responsible for cooling the air inside the cabin. The air conditioning works by circulating coolant through a series of evaporator coils. As the coolant evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air, which the blower motor blows into the cabin. This results in a cooler, more comfortable environment for you and your passengers.
What Are the Common AC Issues?
Several different potential issues can occur with your vehicle air conditioner system. Some of the most common include the following:
Leaking Coolant
A leaking coolant system is one of the most common AC issues. A refrigerant leak from the system can cause the car air conditioner to lose its ability to cool the air effectively. The leak can originate from various locations, including the condenser, evaporator, or hoses, allowing the refrigerant to escape. When your coolant level is too low, it can cause the AC compressor to overheat, leading to serious damage. Also, leaks allow moisture to get inside your AC and mix with the freon, which can cause corrosion.
Clogged Filters
Another common AC issue is clogged filters. The filters in your AC system can become clogged with dirt and debris, restricting air flow and preventing the system from cooling the air properly. Sometimes, a clogged filter can also cause the blower motor to overheat. To prevent this issue, it is important to regularly clean or replace your AC filters.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is one of the most important components of your AC system, and it can fail for a number of reasons. Overheating is one of the most common causes of compressor failure. When the compressor overheats, it can cause the coolant to break down, which can lead to leaks. In some cases, a faulty compressor can also cause the AC system to freeze up. If your compressor fails, it will need to be replaced.
Low Refrigerant Level
If your AC does not blow cold air, it could be because of low refrigerant levels. The coolant in your AC system can leak out over time, which can cause the system to lose its ability to cool air effectively. In some cases, low refrigerant levels can also cause the compressor to fail. To fix this issue, you must have your AC system recharged with new coolant.
Clogged Evaporator Coils
Another common issue is clogged evaporator coils. Over time, the coils can become coated with dust and dirt, which hinders them from absorbing heat. This can cause the AC system to work less efficiently, resulting in hot air being blown into the cabin. To clean the coils, you must remove them from the AC unit and use a brush or vacuum to remove the debris.
Noisy AC
If your AC is making strange noises, such as a squealing noise, it could be an indication of a problem. One of the most common causes of noisy AC is a loose belt. If the belt that drives the compressor is loose, it can cause a rattling noise. You will need to tighten or replace the belt to fix this issue.
Broken Coil Fans
The fans in your AC system help to circulate the coolant and remove heat from the coils. If one of the cooling fans is not working properly, it can cause the AC system to overheat and fail. In some cases, a broken fan can also cause the ac compressor to fail. The best way to prevent this issue is to have your AC system serviced regularly.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are another common cause of a car’s AC problems. Your vehicle’s AC system relies on several electrical components, including the blower motor, compressor belts, and coils. If any of these components are not working properly, it can prevent the system from cooling the air effectively. Whether it is because of a faulty switch or a loose wire, electrical issues can be very difficult to diagnose and repair. If you suspect that your AC system has an electrical issue, it is best to take it to a professional for diagnosis and repair.
What Are Some Tips for Preventing AC Issues?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent AC issues in your vehicle:
- Regularly check your coolant level and add more if it is low.
- Replace your AC filters regularly.
- Have your AC system serviced by a professional every few years to keep up with routine maintenance.
- Ensure that all the electrical components in your car’s air conditioner system are working properly.
- Check for leaks in your engine coolant system and have them repaired as soon as possible.
- Avoid using your AC system when it is very hot outside. This can cause the system to overheat and fail.
When Should I Get a New Car AC?
If you have AC issues and have tried all of the above tips, it may be time to get a new AC system. A professional can help you determine if your current system can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. Generally, you should replace your AC system any time between 5 to 10 years. However, this may vary depending on how often you use your AC and the climate you live in.
Contact the Professionals at Ron’s Auto & RV for Any Auto AC Repair Needs
As summer approaches, it’s important to have your vehicle’s air conditioning system serviced to ensure it’s ready to keep you cool when the weather turns from rainy to sweltering. Waiting until the hottest day of the year to address any issues can leave you feeling overheated and frustrated. That’s why it’s best to schedule an appointment with Ron’s Auto & RV today. As your trusted A/C service provider for Vancouver, Battle Ground, and surrounding areas, our team is licensed in Washington to work with Freon and air conditioning units, which are required by law to provide this service. We offer a range of auto air conditioning services, including diagnostic, regular maintenance, AC recharge service, AC repair, and rebuild services. Plus, all of our services are environmentally sensitive, and we use special equipment to minimize Freon emissions, so you can feel good knowing that your vehicle is running efficiently and with minimal impact on the environment.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule an appointment with Ron’s Auto & RV today to ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape this summer.
Auto services our qualified technicians provide:
- Auto Air Conditioning Repair Services
- Full-Service Engine Repair
- Brake Repair
- Electrical System Repair
- Auto Belt and Hose Replacement
- Maintenance Services
- And More
Visit our About Us page for more information about our auto repair shop.