5 Common Auto AC Problems

As a car owner, you probably know how to spot problems with your car's engines, tyres or brakes, but are you familiar with the signs of a malfunctioning auto air conditioning system? Here are five common auto AC problems to look out for.

1. Moisture

If moisture builds up inside your car's AC, it cannot efficiently cool the air entering your car from outside. You might notice that your car takes a long time to cool down or that the fuel consumption of your car is much higher than usual.

Excessive moisture build-up occurs most often during periods of humid weather. A mechanic can disassemble your auto AC system to remove the excess moisture.

2. Bad Smells

As a result of moisture build-up, bacteria and fungi can start to colonise your car's air conditioning system. This is most likely to happen in winter, when you do not use the AC very often. Bacteria love to grow in dark, damp environments, leading to an unpleasant, musty smell inside your vehicle. To solve this ongoing problem, you need to have your AC system flushed as part of an auto AC service.

3. Low Refrigerant Levels

Just as your car's engine requires oil to run smoothly, the AC cannot work well if it does not have adequate amounts of refrigerant. Refrigerant levels fall gradually over time, causing the AC to become less effective. Ironically, levels tend to fall more quickly during winter, when the AC is not in use. Regardless of the season, you should check the refrigerant tank regularly and top it up if necessary.

4. Dirty Condenser

The condenser is the part of your car's AC that cools refrigerant vapours under high pressure. If this part becomes blocked with dirt, dust or debris, this cooling cannot occur.

Flushing the AC system is the first-line solution to a dirty condenser. Schedule an auto AC service to have this treatment carried out. If the condenser is badly clogged and very old, it might be necessary to replace it.

5. Mechanical Issues

An automotive AC system contains several mechanical components that can break down. These include the compressor, compressor clutch, pressure switch and valve. Various seals can also break, or a wire can come loose, leaving your AC without power. If your auto AC suddenly stops working, take the car to a mechanic to find out what the problem is and get the faulty part replaced.

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