When it comes to taking care of your car, you probably focus on the main things like tires, gasoline, and the engine. But there is a lot that goes on inside your vehicle that you may not even know about. Unfortunately, this can make it kind of difficult to troubleshoot a problem with your car. So to help you make sure your car’s air conditioning unit is in tip-top shape, let’s take a look at a few warning signs that something may be wrong.
Loud and strange noises: One of the first signs you may notice is loud or strange noises coming from your car when you turn on the car air conditioning. If you hear loud noises, there’s a good chance that something is wrong with the compressor. The compressor is what extracts hot air from your car, pumping and cycling it through the condenser and evaporator to create cool air. When this cycle is run over and over again, the compressor will experience wear and tear. So grinding or squealing noises usually mean the compressor is failing and needs to be repaired or replaced.
Fluid leaks: There are a few fluids that help the air conditioning in your vehicle run smoothly. Coolant, refrigerant, and compressor oil can all leak from your vehicle. While a minor leak may seem like a small issue, leaks can quickly escalate to bigger problems with your vehicle. And because it can be difficult to spot a leak, it’s important to trust an auto shop to check for leaks and complete the necessary car air conditioning repairs.
Water spots: When your air conditioning runs, there should be water the drains out of the bottom of the vehicle. But sometimes, the drain that lets out the water can become clogged or damaged. This can cause the water to instead back up into the car and leave wet spots under the dash and front floor mats. If you notice any water stains or spots in your vehicle, take it into an auto shop right away.
There are some easy steps you can take as a vehicle owner to keep your AC unit running properly. You should consider recharging your car’s air conditioning system with lubricant and fresh gas every two years for maximum efficiency. And if you notice any of the warning signs mentioned in this article, make sure to contact a local automotive shop for the necessary repairs.
