Have you ever had your car’s air conditioner fail on a sweltering day? The interior of your vehicle will feel like an oven. Sweat will drip from your body and your clothes will stick to your skin. While it doesn’t make for a very pleasant picture, you don’t have to endure such a scenario. When you need the best auto AC repair near me, stop by Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.

Parts Of Your Car’s AC System

To keep you cool on a hot steamy day, your car has many parts working together to keep you comfortable:

1. Compressor

The AC compressor has a two-fold job. It pumps refrigerant through the system and compresses or pressurizes it. By increasing the pressure, the temperature of the refrigerant also increases making it hotter than the outside air.

2. Condenser

Similar to the radiator, the refrigerant releases its heat as it passes through the condenser. As the refrigerant cools, it turns back into a liquid.

3. Receiver/dryer or accumulator

Depending on your vehicle’s manufacturer, you’ll either have a receiver/dryer and expansion valve or an accumulator and orifice tube. Generally, the accumulator and receiver/dryer perform the same function, removing moisture from the system.

4. Thermal Expansion Valve Or Orifice Tube

Both the thermal expansion valve and orifice tube regulate the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. While the thermal expansion valve can adjust the flow of refrigerant, the orifice tube has a permanently set restriction.

5. Evaporator

As the cooled refrigerant passes through the evaporator, it absorbs heat from your car’s cabin. Then, a fan blows the now-cooled air into your cabin. Moreover, with the absorption of heat, the refrigerant begins to boil and evaporate before heading back to the compressor.

6. Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a chemical compound that easily changes from a liquid to a gas and back to a liquid easily. As refrigerant changes state, it absorbs or releases heat to cool your car’s cabin. Due to environmental concerns, over the years, car manufacturers have switched from R-12 (Freon) to R134a and finally to R1334yf.

7. Hoses And Seals

All the mechanical parts connect to one another through tubes or hoses. At the connections, seals prevent refrigerants from leaking. Over time, both hoses and seals dry out and become brittle allowing leaks to develop.

8. Blower Motor And Fan

The blower motor and fan work together to move air across the evaporator to remove heat and humidity. This cooled air then flows into your cabin to keep you comfortable.

9. Electrical Components

Your car’s AC system relies on electricity to power its components. Heat, moisture, dirt, and debris can all damage the engine’s electrical wiring. Furthermore, low refrigerant levels, electrical issues, and heat can all cause a blown fuse.

Signs You Need An Auto AC Repair Near Me

A car’s AC system is a closed loop. However, as your vehicle ages, parts wear and dirt and debris can clog narrow openings. Over time, your system can develop leaks and lose efficiency. Moreover, while refrigerant leaks are a common problem, any other of the components can fail. If you notice any of these signs, bring your car to the experts at Xpress Lube to diagnose your problem:

• Hot air blows from the vents
• Air blows cool then warm
• Weak airflow
• Unusual noises
• Bad odor in the cabin
• Puddle on the passenger side floor

Auto AC Repair Near Me – FAQS

Do you have questions about your car’s air conditioner? Call us at 336-993-7697 and we’d be happy to answer them. Below, we answer a few commonly asked ones.

How Can I Tell If My AC Compressor Is Bad?

Air conditioners are complex systems and noticing any of the signs could point to a bad compressor. However, the problem may also be a different component. That’s why it’s important to bring your vehicle to a professional auto repair shop. At Xpress Lube, we use the latest diagnostic equipment to find the root of your car’s problem.

Does My Car Need A Recharge?

When an air conditioning system needs a recharge, it simply means it’s low on refrigerant. Although your car’s AC system is a closed loop, you can develop a leak. So, before you recharge your system, you need to fix the leak first to prevent the new refrigerant from leaking out.

However, all refrigerants are colorless and odorless making a leak difficult to detect. That’s why you need the experts at Xpress Lube.

Can I Still Drive With A Broken Air Conditioner?

While you may choose not to use your AC, your defroster uses this system to defog your windows. Thus, when you turn on your defogger, you’ll also engage your compressor. If you’re low on refrigerant, this can cause more damage to this component. Furthermore, a lack of airflow can lead to mold growing inside your vents leading to health issues.

What Other Services Do You Offer?

We’re a full-service automotive repair shop located off of Business 40 in Kernersville. We have 4 ASE-certified mechanics, 5 state inspection technicians, and 5 support staff to take care of your automotive needs:

• Oil changes
• Transmissions
• Wheel alignments
• Tires
• Electrical diagnostics
• Fuel systems
• Exhaust systems
• Brakes
• NC state inspections
• Cooling systems
• Air conditioner repair
• Car wash
• And more!

Where’s the best auto AC repair near me? Many Kernersville residents think it’s Xpress Lube as expressed by their many positive reviews. Make an appointment today by calling 336-993-7697.