Can You Identify These Common Car A/C Problems?
Most Common Automotive Air Conditioner Problems
As we get closer to the summer vacation season, we need to make sure our cars, trucks and SUVs are ready to handle those trips. When summer temperatures start getting into the hot and uncomfortable range, you’ll almost certainly be reaching for your vehicle’s air conditioner. If you go to turn it on and no cold air comes out, it’s going to make for a long drive. Here are some of the most common automotive air conditioner problems, and what you need to do to fix them.
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Low or Leaking Refrigerant
Just like the air conditioner you might have in your home, the one in your car circulates a refrigerant (i.e. Freon) to cool the air that blows through the system and remove the moisture. A car’s A/C system that is leaking Freon or is otherwise low on this coolant has reduced cooling ability, blowing warm air out of the vents, or the system will cycle on and off rapidly.
How To Fix: First, you’ll need to diagnose whether the problem is a leak or if the Freon level is too low. There are commercial kits available to help address either problem. A quick appointment with the Downtown Tyee Service Department is also a very viable option.
Compressor or Clutch Failure
There are a fair number of mechanical components making up a vehicle’s air conditioner. A failure to the system’s compressor or compressor clutch will basically stop cold air from flowing into the cabin. It may also be accompanied by a grinding or squealing noise.
How To Fix: A failed compressor or compressor clutch is a pretty major repair. This will almost certainly require an appointment with our service department to fix properly.
Dirty Cabin Air Filter
The outside air is filled with all kinds of contaminants. Before outside air enters the passenger cabin through the HVAC system, it goes through an air filter. Like any other filter employed in an automobile, it has a set lifespan. Once it gets used up, air flow can be stifled, causing issues with cooling.
How To Fix: This one is simple. Replace the cabin air filter. This is an accessible chore that could easily be done at home. However, the Downtown Tyee Service Department is always ready to help.
If you need help getting your vehicle ready to hit the road for the summer, make an appointment with the highly-trained experts staffing our service department.