Diagnosing Most Common Car A/C System Failure

Professional car mechanics working in auto repair service

Not only can it cause you massive discomfort when your car’s A/C meets with a system failure, but it can also even be dangerous during the hottest months. When you are experiencing a car A/C system failure, you may be wondering exactly where the problem lies. Read on to find out the most common issues that can cause a system failure as well as how you can deal with them!

Leaking Refrigerant

The problem with leaking refrigerant is that it can be hard to notice if it has escaped in the gaseous state. Being colorless and odorless, you may not know that you have a leak until your vents start circulating hot air instead of cold. The only solution for a leak is to recharge your car A/C and apply a sealant to the affected area.

Faulty Compressor

The compressor is a vital part of your car’s A/C, working to circulate refrigerant throughout the system. The most common reason for a faulty compressor is if it has gone some time without use. This can happen when you have not turned on your car’s A/C for a prolonged period over winter – the system experiences a shock when it is next turned on.

To prevent this problem, it is recommended to run your car’s A/C for at least 15 minutes every 3 weeks regardless of the external temperature.

Blocked or Broken Condenser

The job of your condenser is to cool hot air that passes through your car’s A/C. However, it’s unable to do this job when there’s no airflow passing through the front of your car. This can be caused by dirt or debris that has gotten stuck on your condenser. Fortunately, solving the problem is easy – simply give your condenser a good clean.

If it turns out that your condenser is broken, this can be caused by a piece of debris entering the system and going through the grill of your car. Otherwise, a puncture or equipment failure may have taken place. The only solution, in this case, is to get a new condenser.

There’s a Clicking Sound When Your Car’s A/C Is On

Have you noticed a loud switching sound that seems to turn on and off continuously when your car’s A/C is running? In some cases, this may be particularly obvious when you are standing outside your car while the A/C is on. This means that you have a short cycling A/C compressor, which can be caused by leaking refrigerant or other factors!

You Can Turn to R & Y A/C Compressors® for A/C Replacement Parts with Full Confidence

At R & Y A/C Compressors®, we specialize in automotive heating and cooling systems for all types of vehicles. To this end, you will find a varied selection of parts and components in our online shop to choose from. With more than 30 years of experience in the field, we are well-positioned to provide you with recommendations for blower motors, compressor kits, expansion valves, and more!