Summer is here, and with it comes the hot, unforgiving sun. This means you are likely going to use your car’s air conditioner more now than during any other time of the year. After all, the cold air’s job is to keep you and your passengers comfortable, as well as to cool down the inside of the vehicle in general. But neglecting to perform preventative car maintenance and not checking the condition of your AC before you need it the most can throw a wrench in your summer plans.
As a longtime auto repair shop in Madison, TN we’re well equipped to share with you some reasons why your car’s air conditioning system is blowing warm air instead of cool air.
Your vehicle has a refrigerant leak
Low refrigerant levels often point to a refrigerant leak. But what you might not know is that this is considered a unique problem because refrigerant is made to evaporate into a gas the moment it is no longer under the pressure of a closed loop air conditioning system. It’s for this reason that you won’t see liquid puddles under your car, like what you would notice with an oil or antifreeze leak. AC system leaks are indicated by an oily residue found on or around the AC hose and connections or any other AC system components.
There are problems with the car’s electrical system
Yes, there are electrical components running throughout your vehicle’s air conditioning system. The AC contains a myriad of wires, fuses, pressure switches and other connections that work together so your AC functions properly, every time. In order to protect itself from damage and to maintain the safety of the occupants of the vehicle, an AC that fails because of age, a defect or damage will promptly shut down. You’ll need a professional test performed to receive an informed diagnosis.
You have a worn out compressor
The presence of a compressor in a vehicle is to power the air conditioning system. The function of this device is to circulate the refrigerant so the heat will leave the inside of the vehicle, where you and your passengers ride. And although the compressor is built to last a long time, like other car parts and components, it will eventually succumb to the effects of regular wear and tear. Compressor problems can also be attributed to other working parts that may have failed within the air conditioning system. One way you can ensure the compressor enjoys a longer life is to run it for a few minutes each month during the AC’s off-seasons, and schedule regular checkups.
Like other car components, it’s not surprising if your vehicle air conditioner acts up from time to time, whether the problems are due to age or damage. The key to ensuring right and normal AC function this summer is to schedule regular mechanic appointments and get repairs made as soon as possible. Good thing our team at Madison Muffler & Auto Repair is trained and knowledgeable to perform all types of automotive services. Contact our auto repair shop in Madison, TN today!