After stepping into a hot car in the afternoon, the last thing you want is to discover that the air conditioner blows warm air. Many people assume that a refrigerant recharge will do the trick, but that is not always the case. Especially if the air smells like mildew or you hear a strange noise. Take your ride in for vehicle AC service and repair to get things cooled down before the problem gets worse!
Why is My Car AC Not Working After a Recharge?
Vehicles do need a refrigerant recharge if there’s a leak—either air leaking into the system or refrigerant leaking out. Refrigerant does not just disappear or evaporate. So, if you don’t have a leak, a recharge is a waste of time.
A quick visit for vehicle air conditioning service and repair at your local auto shop can diagnose the real issue. Experienced mechanics can spot certain things right away, like a blocked drain or broken fan.
Vehicle AC Problems and Solutions
Air conditioning problems in a car are notoriously hard for the average joe to diagnose. Even a refrigerant leak will not result in a visible pool of liquid under the car. The rest of the parts are not necessarily accessible or easy to reach. However, a mechanic can run the system, play detective, and expertly troubleshoot a vehicle AC.
Here’s what we will ask you about and look for:
Hot air or not very cold: This might well be a refrigerant leak that needs patching and recharging. However, it could be a problem with the AC compressor, evaporator, or condenser. The air vacuum or hose might have a leak.
Not much air coming out: When the vehicle AC is barely blowing air, first check whether it works with the interior recirculation turned on or off. If so, that narrows things down. Ultimately, insufficient airflow can mean a worn belt, an air leak, low refrigerant, or a motor and fan problem.
Car AC smells like mildew: Moisture leads to mildew. Your vehicle air conditions service and repair shop can look for a blocked drain and check if a clogged evaporator is collecting condensation. The whole AC system might be in need of cleaning.
Humidity or water leak: Does your AC feel clammy or humid? Have you noticed water on the floorboards? If so, you probably need the drain tube or drain pan adjusted.
Strange noise: Rattling from a vehicle AC system likely means the motor or fan are clogged and running improperly. Other noises, like grinding or squealing, usually originate from the compressor.
Vehicle Air Conditioning Service and Repair in Windsor, CA
Driving around with the windows cracked because your vehicle’s AC system isn’t working? Don’t assume it just needs a refrigerant recharge—but don’t fear the worst, either! There’s probably just a small part or two that needs lubrication, cleaning, or replacement.
For vehicle air conditioning service and repair in Sonoma County, contact us at All Around Auto Repair.
