The first automaker to introduce factory-installed AC into their automobile occurred in 1940. Yet, it wasn’t until decades later that it became standard equipment. For those car owners who live in the South, having working auto air conditioning is a necessity, not a luxury.
A Little Maintenance Goes A Long Way
Typically, your car’s AC system can last between 8 and 10 years. The lifespan depends on the local climate, how often you turn your AC on, and how well you maintain it. High temperatures and humidity can strain your auto’s AC system. When components work harder, it decreases their life expectancy.
While you can’t control the environment, you can manage your maintenance schedule. Usually, automakers will recommend several maintenance tasks to keep your auto air conditioning running efficiently. You can find the specific requirements for your vehicle in your owner’s manual.
Generally, you should replace your cabin air filter periodically. This filter can become clogged with dirt restricting airflow. Then, your AC must work harder to reach your desired cabin temperature.
Additionally, you should routinely pop your hood and check the condition of your AC condenser. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on this part restricting its ability to release heat. Of course, this leads to reduced efficiency and a less effective cooling system.
Other Routine Maintenance That Can Affect Your AC
Sometimes, car owners don’t realize that when you neglect one part of your car engine, other systems suffer too. For example, low levels of coolant can cause your engine to overheat. Once engine sensors detect high temperatures, your car’s main computer can shut off your air-conditioning.
Oil also keeps your engine cool and can indirectly affect your interior comfort. Over time, contaminants can build up in the oil causing it to lose its effectiveness. Old oil doesn’t flow as easily and can’t lubricate as well as new oil. This will allow more friction and a greater heat buildup leading to overheating. Again, the ECU will turn off your air-conditioning once the engine temperature rises too high.
In between coolant and oil changes, you should regularly check these fluid levels. While you’re under the hood, check your belt and hoses too. The engine belt should be free from cracks, fraying, or nicks. Also, give your hoses a good squeeze to feel for any soft spots. A good hose should have a firm but flexible feel.
Symptoms Of A Bad AC Compressor
Often, one of the most expensive repairs on your car’s AC is replacing the compressor. This part pressurizes the refrigerant to allow it to release its heat. It also pumps the refrigerant through the system. You can usually tell it’s going bad by one of the following signs:
- Unusual Noises
As the compressor begins to fail, you may hear unusual sounds like a high-pitched squeal or grinding sound.
- Warm Air Flowing From The Vents
The job of the AC compressor is to pressurize the refrigerant so that the temperature increases. Once it reaches the AC condenser, the refrigerant will be hotter than the outside air. This allows the refrigerant to release its heat. A failing compressor can’t properly compress the refrigerant preventing the AC from cooling your cabin.
- Repeatedly Tripping A Circuit Breaker
If you find a circuit breaker keeps tripping when running your AC or defroster, your compressor may be failing.
FAQs About Auto Air Conditioning
Often, inexperienced garage mechanics can easily misdiagnose a problem with auto air conditioning. That’s why it’s important to have skilled mechanics service your car. At Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville, our ASE-certified mechanics will correctly diagnose and fix your problem. Below, we answer some questions related to issues about your car’s interior comfort system.
Are There Other Reasons Why Warm Air Blows From The Vent?
Yes. Low refrigerant, electrical issues, or broken condensers can all cause warm air to blow from your car vents. Finding the correct diagnosis can save you both time and money.
How Do I Tell If I Simply Need An AC Recharge?
Unfortunately, there’s nothing simple about a recharge. A recharge means your car’s AC system is low on refrigerant. Usually, this occurs because you’ve developed a leak. As your car ages, hoses become brittle and break. Rubber seals and gaskets will chemically interact with the environment and deteriorate. If you recharge your system without fixing the leak, your refrigerant will simply leak out again.
Is It Safe To Use A Recharge Kit With A Stop Leak Sealer?
While it seems like a great solution, using a recharge kit with a leak sealer can cause more expensive repairs. First, the sealer can clog up more than just your leak. Additionally, automakers have changed refrigerants over the years. Older cars use Freon, while newer vehicles may contain R-134a or 1234yf. Using the wrong refrigerant may cause further damage. Also, adding too much refrigerant can be just as disastrous.
Finally, dirt, water, and other contaminants can enter your system via the leak. Then, it can spread throughout the system causing damage to other parts. Thus, it’s crucial to flush your system to clean and remove all contaminants.
Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville Can Help You Maintain Every Part Of Your Vehicle
For over 25 years, we’ve been helping car owners maintain their vehicles with quality work at competitive prices. Our facility has the latest diagnostic equipment so we can quickly find your problem. With an experienced staff of technicians, we can perform inspections, maintenance, and repairs on foreign and domestic vehicles. We even have an on-site car wash to maintain the exterior.
To make an appointment, call us at 336-993-7697 or use our online form. Don’t wait until a simple fix ends up costing you hundreds of dollars.
