How to Know if Your Vehicle’s Air Conditioning Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

You may not think about your air conditioning until it’s time to turn it on in 25°C weather, but ensuring that your air conditioning is working now, will guarantee that it’s ready to use when you need it.

While your air conditioning may suddenly stop working with no signs of failure, there are often many clues that it’s time to have your A/C unit checked:

1. A/C blows cool air not cold air – When your A/C is on, the air blowing from the vents should be cold not just cool. Once your car is warmed up, your air conditioning should blow very cold air when it is on its maximum setting. If the air is only getting cool, this could be a sign that you have a leak in your A/C system or you may have a faulty A/C compressor.
2. Seeing leaking – You may notice that moisture is leaking from your A/C unit, and this could be a sign that your A/C condenser is failing. You should also watch for moisture on your windshield glass. If you turn your defroster on and the moisture is still on your windshield glass, this could be a sign of a failing dryer in the A/C unit.
3. Hearing high-pitched or grinding noises when A/C is on – If you are suddenly hearing strange noises when your A/C is on, this could be a sign of failing components. Your A/C unit is made up of many components that are bound to fail over time. One common component failure is a worn sealed bearing. If this is the problem, it may be an easier solution to have your A/C compressor replaced rather than trying to repair it.
4. Noticeable decrease in your fuel efficiency – Your A/C compressor has a clutch that should cycle on and off to improve your fuel economy, but as parts begin to wear, your compressor clutch could get stuck in the “on” position; this means it will run all the time and wear out very quickly and start to decrease your fuel efficiency. If this is occurring, it is a good idea to have your compressor replaced.

If you notice any of these issues, it is a good idea to bring your car into your nearest Tirecraft location to have your A/C unit inspected.

We’re always here to help get you back on the road. Tirecraft – Real People Servicing Real Life