Your car’s AC is an integral part of the vehicle. Especially in the coming summer, it helps keep your car’s interior cool. Like every other vehicle system, your air conditioning system can run into problems. Some common causes of car AC problems include refrigerant leaks, faulty cooling fans, and a bad or clogged compressor.
Make sure your vehicle is ready to take on the summer heat with a fully functional AC unit. Here are some common car AC problems and their solutions from the experts at GreenTech Automotive.
No Cold Air
Car AC refrigerant absorbs heat and humidity produced in the vehicle, leaving cool air behind. If your car’s air conditioner does not blow cold air, there is a strong possibility that you are dealing with a refrigerant leak. A hole in the compressor, hoses, or condenser can cause a refrigerant leak.
A ruptured AC evaporator can also lead to a refrigerant leak. Have a mechanic inspect your car as soon as possible. The professional will add refrigerant and a fluorescent leak tracer dye to your system and run the AC. Once they identify problem spots, your mechanic will start auto AC repairs near you in Santa Rosa.
No Air is Coming from the Vents
Some common causes of this AC problem include a blown fuse or bad relay, damaged belts, and hoses, clogged blocked air intake areas, and a faulty blower motor or motor resistor. Try replacing the fuse and relay. If the problem persists, take your car to your mechanic’s garage so they can inspect other ventilation system components.
Car AC Makes Noises When Turned On
Your car’s air conditioner should not make any noise when turned on. If it does, there is something amiss with your AC system. Sometimes, leaves or other debris can clog AC vents, causing your AC to produce unusual banging or rattling noises.
If this is not the case, a major AC system component may have failed. A grinding or squealing noise could mean that a bearing has worn out. A rattling sound could indicate AC compressor clutch failure. These serious issues must be resolved quickly and effectively. Stop using your AC and have an expert conduct a thorough inspection as soon as possible.
AC Smells Musty
If you turn on your car’s AC after a long time or frequently use the maximum setting and a strong, musty odor hits you, you have mildew in your AC. In addition to mildew, bacteria, mold, fungi, and other microorganisms can grow behind the dashboard on the AC evaporator. This growth produces foul odors.
If your air filter has become clogged with dust, bacteria, and other pollutants, replace it. If the odor still lingers, add an anti-bacterial solution to the AC evaporator to eliminate mold and other microorganisms.
GreenTech Automotive specializes in all types of car repairs. Our mechanics boast of decades of collective hands-on experience repairing and servicing different types of cars. To schedule an inspection and maintenance, call (707) 545-7076.