What to Do If Your Car Air Conditioner Stops Working
In 1969, only 54% of domestic automobiles included air conditioning, and those of you who were around in the pre-AC days can attest to the sticky, sweltering discomfort of driving on a hot summer day. These days, many people can’t imagine the misery of a long road trip in the summer without air conditioning. Although we often forget to appreciate how good we have it in 2020, you never know when your air conditioner might break. And do you know what to do if your car air conditioner stops blowing cold air? There’s a right way and a wrong way to address the problem—and believe me, you don’t want to make a mistake!
It’s a warm day and you’re feeling the heat as you jump into your car. You turn the knob to start the AC but . . . nothing. Instead of the cool air you crave, the air conditioner blows out warm air that makes the car feel stuffier. What should you do?
DO: Call your mechanic.
AC systems are complicated, so to fix the problem as soon as possible without damaging your car, contact a trustworthy auto technician. Call as soon as you can, especially if the forecast promises hot and sunny days. Driving without air conditioning isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also be dangerous!
In addition, pay attention to the details of the problem so that you can provide your mechanic with useful information. For example, when did your AC stop working? Do any strange noises or smells accompany the problem? What does the air coming out of the vents feel like? Is the air cold initially (before fading) or is it consistently warm? These details might help your mechanic diagnosis the problem more quickly.
DON’T: Attempt to solve the problem yourself with canned freon.
Although we know it’s tempting to take the reins and attempt to fix the car yourself, we strongly advise against this. Some people purchase canned freon at Wal-Mart, hoping it will improve their car’s air conditioning, but this “solution” will more than likely damage your car’s entire A/C system, which includes some very expensive components such as the air compressor. Under no circumstances should you buy this product!
DO: Look into possible causes.
Although we urge you to trust your mechanic with any AC issues, we can’t blame you for being curious. Plus, it never hurts to learn a little more about what’s going on behind-the-scenes in your car. So what caused your air conditioner to stop working? Most likely, your AC system lost its charge of refrigerant. Or, due to an electrical fault, its compressor is not engaging when you turn on the system. Another possibility is that an internal obstruction is blocking the circulation of refrigerant. Finally, if a blend air door in your HVAC unit is stuck on “heat,” cool air won’t be able to flow into the cabin. Another important item to check is the cabin air filter. If it’s clogged or dirty, harmful contaminants will enter the interior of your vehicle.
Has your AC stopped working? If you’re located in Springfield (MO) or northwest Arkansas, give ASE-certified Seeburg Service Center a call. Our experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly mechanics will work hard to get your air conditioning system back into gear ASAP. To get started, please contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!
