Occasionally, the temperature in NC will soar past 100 degrees. Moreover, a heat spell is the worst time to turn on your car’s AC and realize it doesn’t work. When that happens, the professionals at Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville can help with a car ac fix near me.

Signs Your AC Needs Servicing

Driving around North Carolina in the summer can be miserable without your car’s AC. Usually, keeping up with maintenance can help you avoid some issues.

Typically, the most common sign there’s a problem is warm air blowing from the vents. Yet, some other signs may indicate your car’s AC needs servicing:

• Inconsistent temperatures
• Strange noises
• Foul smell
• Leaking refrigerant

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait to have your air conditioning serviced. Waiting can lead to more damage and a bigger repair bill.

Reasons Why Your Car’s AC Isn’t Working

When your air conditioning does quit, it can be one of several different reasons:

1. Low Refrigerant

As your car ages, components will deteriorate. This can lead to cracks and tiny holes developing allowing refrigerant to escape. Without enough refrigerant in your car’s air conditioning system, your unit can’t provide cool air.

2. Excess Refrigerant

Sometimes, car owners want to avoid the cost of paying a professional to fix their vehicle. Moreover, with plenty of DIY A/C recharging kits for sale, it seems easy to recharge your unit.

However, DIYers can make the mistake of adding too much refrigerant. Excessive refrigerant can cause warm air to blow from your vents.

3. Damaged Compressor

Your car’s AC compressor has two functions. First, the compressor pressurizes refrigerant so that it absorbs heat. Additionally, it moves the refrigerant throughout the system.

While most AC compressors will last 8 – 10 years, some can age prematurely. Typically, a loss of refrigerant from a leak will put a strain on your compressor causing it to age quicker.

4. Clutch Failure

For optimal fuel efficiency, automakers design AC systems that cycle on and off. Once the system cools the cabin temperature to the specified setting, the compressor switches off.

The component responsible for delivering power to the AC compressor is the clutch. When the clutch fails, it won’t turn on the compressor.

5. Faulty AC Condenser Fan

For your car’s AC to work properly, the refrigerant must release heat. This is the job of the condenser fan. It blows air over the condenser dissipating the refrigerant’s heat. Without a working fan, heat will build up in the refrigerant and you’ll have warm air blowing from your vents.

6. Malfunctioning Sensors

Your car’s AC unit has temperature sensors that measure and analyze temperature. Sensors, electro-mechanical devices, help maintain cabin comfort. If your sensor fails, you may experience irregular temperatures in the cabin.

7. Blown Fuse

Generally, engineers include fuses in electrically run systems. A fuse is a safety device that will stop the flow of electricity under excessive current loads.

Many components in your car rely on electricity to function including your air conditioning system. Once you blow a fuse, your air conditioner won’t work.

Automotive Air Conditioning Maintenance

Sometimes, you can prevent some air conditioner problems from occurring. For example, you should check under your car’s hood and examine the hoses and belts for any signs of deterioration. If you notice any wear, you should replace these components.

Another simple maintenance task is to change your cabin air filter on schedule. Over time, your filter will become clogged impeding airflow. Without proper airflow, your system can’t function properly.

Finally, you should run your air conditioner for about 10 minutes a day even in the winter. Running your AC circulates lubricant through the system protecting your seals from drying out.

FAQs To Help You Find The Best Car AC Fix Near Me

Searching for an auto shop for a reliable car AC fix near me? We’d be happy to answer any questions about an AC repair. You can call us at 336-993-7697 and one of our friendly staff members will help you. Below, we’ve answered a few common questions.

How Much Does It Cost For A Car AC Fix Near Me?

Before we can quote you a price, we need to know exactly what is wrong with your car’s air conditioning. Sometimes, the repair is fairly inexpensive. Typically, changing the cabin air filter or fuses fall into this category.

Other fixes can be more expensive. An example of a costly repair is changing the compressor.

Moreover, low refrigerant means your system leaks somewhere. Before recharging your system, you need to find the spot you’re losing refrigerant and repair it.

What About Other Types Of Maintenance?

We’re a full-service automotive repair shop with ASE-certified technicians. Our mechanics can service and repair any make and model car. With over 2 decades of experience, we can handle many common automotive repairs:

• Brakes
• Transmissions
• Oil change
• AC recharging/repair
• Tires
• Wheel alignment
• State inspections
• Fuel systems
• Electrical diagnostics
• Car wash
• And more!

Using the most modern diagnostic equipment, we guarantee to properly repair or service your vehicle promptly. Plus, we offer a friendly atmosphere to make you feel comfortable.

Where Can I Find More Car Care Tips?

We want the best for your car. So, we offer some great car maintenance tips on our social media pages. Follow us on Facebook for the latest advice on caring for your vehicle.

If you’ve been having trouble with your car’s AC, bring it down to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. We’ll have you back chilling behind the wheel in no time.