Most drivers give very little thought to their vehicle's cooling system until it no longer works like it should. Being able to identify when your vehicle is experiencing common car air conditioning (AC) issues, such as dirty air filters or refrigerant leaks, may help resolve them more quickly.
Car AC Is Blowing Hot Air
When the car AC is blowing hot air on a sweltering summer day, it's one of the most frustrating experiences for any driver. This may happen for a few reasons, ranging from minor issues like dirty cabin air filters or depleted refrigerant levels to more detailed issues, such as a malfunctioning compressor clutch or issues with the electrical system.
Depleted refrigerant is often one of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning AC unit. As the refrigerant levels drop, the AC system no longer has what it needs to pull heat from the air.
Knowing how to check if your car's AC compressor is functioning properly can be as simple as listening for a loud noise when attempting to turn on your air conditioning. However, it is generally recommended to have a technician assess your vehicle to confirm the source of the malfunction.
Car AC is Cool But Not Cold
When your car's AC blows air that's cool but falls short of being refreshingly cold, it's like a lukewarm promise on a scorching day. Some potential reasons that the car's AC blows cool but not cold enough include:
- Low refrigerant level: This is generally caused by a leak that needs to be located and repaired. Leaks can arise in various areas of your car's AC system, such as near the condenser or around O-rings, seals, fittings, and hoses. It is recommended to have a professional check refrigerant level to prevent accidental release, which can cause skin damage due to its extremely cold temperature.
- Dirty/clogged condenser: When the system's condenser gets dirty or even clogged with debris or grime, then the transfer of heat and airflow to the AC system may be impacted, reducing its efficiency and cooling power.
- Faulty or malfunctioning compressor: When the unit's compressor goes bad, it cannot do the job it's designed to do – compress the refrigerant circulating through the AC system. This may lead to ineffective cooling.
- Dirty/clogged air cabin filter: A dirty filter may lead to restricted airflow, reducing the capacity of your car's cooling system.
Because of the variety of potential locations for leaks and other mechanical problems that can result in your car's AC not cooling as it should, a professional inspection by a technician is the easiest way to identify and repair problems leading to cooling issues.
No Airflow From Car AC
When your car's AC fails to produce airflow, it can quickly turn a comfortable ride into a stifling experience. A clogged or extremely dirty cabin air filter is a common cause of no airflow from the car's AC, which may restrict air flow from the vents dramatically, potentially making for uncomfortable commutes.
To check and replace your car's AC filter:
- Refer to your car's owner's manual to find the location of the air filter. It can be located in several locations, including the glove box, depending on your vehicle.
- Access the filter according to instructions in your car's owners manual.
- Remove the filter carefully, noting its original placement.
- Examine the filter for signs of damage, dirt, and debris.
- Replace the old filter with a new one, reinstalling the filter into the filter housing.
- Replace any panels or compartments removed during the process.
- Turn the ignition and turn on the AC, listening for any odd noises that might indicate potential issues with installation.
- Refer to the maintenance schedule or owners manual supplement for appropriate intervals for checking your car's air conditioning filter. (Notably, if you live in a dusty area or area with heavy flow of traffic, you may need to replace your AC filter earlier than recommended).
In addition to filter issues, other problems may also impact air flow through the vents when running the AC. A malfunctioning blower motor is sometimes to blame and may be caused by a worn-out motor or a blown fuse. Issues with the blend door actuator, responsible for directing airflow between the AC and heater core, may disrupt the distribution of air. Damaged ductwork or leaks may further cause potential airflow problems. Electrical problems, such as faulty switches or wiring issues, might prevent the blower motor from operating.
By addressing these potential issues above, you may restore optimal airflow and enjoy a comfortable ride once again. Remember, when repairing/replacing parts of the air conditioning system, it is recommended to have the repair or replacement done by your dealer or authorized service center to help avoid potential voiding of your vehicle's warranty. When an air conditioning system part is replaced, it must be replaced with a new one.
Car AC Is Leaking
If you notice that your car AC is leaking, then it could be a potential problem. Leaks from a vehicle's AC are not considered to be normal and should be addressed properly and promptly. However, water dripping under your vehicle from the air conditioning after use is normal.
AC leakage may indicate an underlying issue with your car's AC. Leaks can occur in hose connections if fittings, seals, or O-rings become loose or seals degrade over the course of time. Exposure to road debris may cause corrosion to the condenser or evaporator, which might potentially lead to the development of leaks. Also, wear and tear and damage may cause leaks in the AC's compressor.
When you notice an AC leak, either in the cabin or under your car during idling or while parked, it's important to have it checked out. Ignoring a leak not only affects the cooling performance of your AC but may also cause unnecessary wear on your AC's components.