Before making a trip to the mechanic, it is an added advantage if you can troubleshoot the A/C problems in your Hyundai Santa Fe on your own. This way, you will know which services and Hyundai air conditioning parts to get to restore your A/C into the original working condition. Let’s proceed by taking a look at some of the most common Hyundai Santa Fe A/C problems:
A/C Compressor Issues
The A/C compressor is one of the most important components of any vehicle’s air conditioning system. It is designed to pressurize the A/C system and ensures the refrigerant flows without any issues. The compressor functions in a continuous cycle, i.e. on and off. That’s why it is subject to wear every time the A/C is turned on. It is not invulnerable to failure and needs to be replaces from time to time. When a compressor starts to fail, the driver may be alerted by one or more of the following warning signs:
- The compressor clutch stops moving
- The compressor produces loud noises when it is running
- The cabin temperature rises (you will feel that something’s not right)
Climate Control Electrical Issues
To regulate the temperature inside a Hyundai Santa Fe, the climate control system utilizes an ambient air temperature sensor (located outside the passenger compartment) and one or more in-vehicle sensors to measure the actual body temperature of your passengers and you. A sun-load sensor is also installed to compensate for sunlight that enters the vehicle through the windows. When a climate control system experiences electrical issues, they may cause:
- Nothing happens when the climate control system is turned on
- Air fails to blow out of defroster outlets, lower outlets, dash outlets, and other desired ducts
- When the A/C is turned on, no air blows out of the ducts
- In-vehicle temperature does not match the current setting (it may be too cold or too warm)
A/C Refrigerant Leaks
A car’s A/C can blow out hot air if it is low on refrigerant. This also indicates that there is a leak somewhere. It is common for people to misunderstand that the refrigerant is slowly depleted through regular air conditioning usage. Although one can add more refrigerant, the refrigerant will continue depleting unless you seal the leak permanently. Next, you should always be cautious when handling the refrigerant. Here are some reasons why:
- As the refrigerant is environmentally harmful, it should never be released into the air on purpose
- A proper refrigerant recovery machine should be utilized to protect both the environment and the technician (it can cause severe chemical burns to the eyes and skin)
With that, it is also important that your vehicle has converted from R12 to R134a refrigerant. You should keep in mind that refrigerant types are updated over time. If there has been a recent conversion or an update from an older refrigerant type, a label should be attached under the hood to inform your technician.
Replacing air conditioning components involve processes that often require the complete evacuation of one’s A/C system with a refrigerant recovery machine. Once the A/C components have been re-installed, the technician will proceed to remove all the air from the system. This is an essential step to take before recharging the system with new refrigerant.
At R & Y A/C Compressors, we specialize in automotive air conditioning and heating systems for a great array of vehicles, Hyundai Santa Fe included. Check out what we have in store for you now if you are looking for A/C parts at the most affordable prices!