Temperatures are on the rise. Is your car’s AC cutting it? If your car’s air conditioning just doesn’t feel as cool as it should, it may be time for a mechanic to take a look. Luckily, AC repair in cars can be a relatively simple fix for an experienced mechanic. Before you head to the auto repair shop, there are a few possible AC repairs you can keep in mind that you may end up needing.
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You Have a Refrigerant Leak
Your car’s air conditioning system uses a fluid called refrigerant to chill air that passes through before being cycled back to the cabin of your car. Just like other fluids your car uses, a leak can develop over time from wear or damage. It can be a loose gasket or damaged hose, but no matter what it is, it’s a good idea to have it repaired before it gets worse. The lower your refrigerant levels, the harder it’ll be for your car’s AC system to properly chill warm air as it cycles through the system.
Check for Drips Under Your Car
If you notice air coming out of your vents is warmer than it should be, one of the first things you can do is check for drips under your car. A refrigerant leak will show up as drips, though there are other fluids that could drip under your car, too. Any time you notice fluid under your car that shouldn’t be there, it’s best to give your mechanic a call so they can help diagnose and repair your car’s problem.
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You Need an Air Conditioning Recharge
Over time, your refrigerant level will naturally go down no matter how old or new your car’s air conditioning system is. This change will be very gradual, so you’re not likely to notice drips under your car or a huge, sudden change in temperature of the air coming into the cabin of your car. But eventually, you’re bound to notice that the air is warmer than it should be. That’s a sign you need an AC recharge.
Regular Car AC Maintenance Keeps Both You & Your Car Happy
As with any system in your car, keeping up with regular AC maintenance on your car keeps parts running smoothly. Having your car’s AC recharged regularly will ensure your air conditioning system stays healthy and you stay cool through the summer months. There’s no regular interval for how often you should schedule an AC recharge for your car, but a good rule of thumb is to do so every few years.
Your Compressor or Condenser is Broken
Together, your car’s AC system’s compressor and condenser are responsible for cooling warm air that circulates through. They do this by compressing the warm air, turning it to gas, and chilling it as it turns back into liquid. That chilled air then circulates back into the cabin of your car, keeping you cool and comfortable while you drive.
This Team of Parts Is Responsible for Chilling Air
Because the compressor and condenser are both responsible for chilling warm air circulating through your car’s AC system, if either part stops working, you won’t get cool air back into the cabin of your car. Your compressor may not engage because of low refrigerant or an electrical problem. And your condenser may become blocked over time, meaning refrigerant can’t flow through and chill the warm air. In either case, it’s best to trust your car’s AC repair to a mechanic to ensure the problem is fixed.
AC Broken in Your Car? Come to Our AAMCO Boise Mechanics
Is your car blowing hot air? Our expert mechanics can help diagnose any necessary AC repair in your car so you can drive comfortably again. Summer is just beginning and you want to be prepared for rising temperatures, so you won’t roast on your next road trip. Schedule your appointment online today or give us a call and we’ll help answer any of your questions.
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AAMCO Boise - West State St
3401 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83703
Hours: Mon-Fri, 7:30am - 5:00pm
AAMCO Boise - Fairview Ave
8486 Fairview Ave.
Boise, ID 83704Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 5:00pm
AAMCO Nampa
705 12th Avenue Rd.
Nampa, ID 83686Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 5:00pm