Your car’s air conditioning system makes it more comfortable to drive in the hottest months. If you take the AC system for granted, it can break down when it’s least convenient. Here are some things you can do to avoid expensive repairs on your car air conditioning.
Maintain Proper System Installation
Service your car’s AC system at the start of summer to make sure it’s operating well. One of the benefits of this service is better gas mileage, because your car’s engine won’t have to work as hard to cool your vehicle. Another benefit is a greener car. It’s better for the environment to have your AC working at peak performance. Finally, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable ride, whether it’s just to work or if you’re driving across the country on vacation.
Address Promptly Any Signs of Leaks
The AC in your car is a closed system. Unlike oil, the refrigerant isn’t consumed or used up. If your AC is blowing warm air, it’s likely due to low refrigerant. This means you probably have a leak. Before you recharge the AC with a refrigerant like R-1234YF refrigerant, you need to fix the leak. Otherwise, when you add refrigerant, it will simply leak out again. Here are the most common reasons your AC would have a leak.
1. Wear and Tear
The components of the AC system break down over time because they get old. The metal parts of the system won’t wear out, but any rubber hoses or seals can degrade or dry out and crack. When you notice that the AC isn’t cooling as efficiently as it once did, checking for leaks and making repairs quickly can prevent more expensive repairs.
2. Physical Damage
The AC system can get damaged from rough riding conditions or after an accident. Check the vehicle carefully after an impact, even if you don’t think damage was done. Learn the signs that you have a refrigerant leak, so you can get it fixed quickly. In addition to warm air coming from the AC, you may hear a clicking sound when the AC is running. Sometimes, you may see a gooey gel on the engine or the floor, but refrigerant has chemical properties that may not leave any trail behind when it leaks.
3. Moisture in The System
When a small leak occurs from rubber wear and tear, moisture can get into the AC system itself. Water, when mixed with refrigerant, creates an acid compound that will break down other components of the system.
Exposure to Winter Chemicals
Road salt can cause the metal in your car to corrode, interrupting the AC’s service. If you live in an area with a lot of snow and ice, make sure to wash the underside of the car to protect the metal and your AC system.
Find Car Parts To Keep Your Car Running Well
Shop for all types of auto parts and accessories, like a portable car jump starter, that help you maintain your car through all types of weather.