WHY IS MY CAR AC NOT WORKING? (2024)

Understanding why your car’s air conditioning (AC) system isn’t functioning properly can be crucial for maintaining comfort during your drives. Similar to home AC systems, your car’s AC works by removing heat and moisture from an enclosed space and exchanging it with compressed gas. However, several components within the system can malfunction, leading to issues. Let’s explore the key components and potential reasons behind AC failure.

Components of the A/C system

The Compressor

This is one of the most expensive components of the auto AC systems which is usually not repairable. Located in front of the vehicle, just behind the grill, is the compressor and its function is to compress the gas (R-134a) and then circulate the compressed gas. This compressor is usually driven (Made to rotate) via the belt that is attached to the engine. Compressor is usually damage by any of the followings:

• Low refrigerant in the system mainly due to gas leakage
• Electrical issues such as voltage fluctuations, faulty wiring system
• Overheating such as excessive heat buildup due to inadequate airflow, dirty coils, or a malfunctioning fan
• Contaminants such as foreign particles or moisture entering the system can cause corrosion or mechanical damage to the compressor components.
• Poor maintenance such as neglecting regular maintenance such as cleaning coils, replacing filters, and checking refrigerant levels can lead to compressor issues.
• Age, compressors naturally degrade over time with regular use, and older compressors are more prone to failure.

The Condenser

The condenser, mounted in front of vehicle radiator, helps to cool the compressed gas to liquid state thereby releasing heat from the refrigerant to the atmosphere via the help of the cooling fan.

Common causes of condenser damage are:

• Physical damage any impact as a result of front collisions or dent can affect the condenser.
• Poor maintenance and corrosion can cause condenser to damage. Excessive dust, debris and dirt hinders heat transfer causing overheating of the condenser.
• Electrical issues such as voltage fluctuations, faulty wiring system
• Low refrigerant in the system mainly due to gas leakage

Expansion Valve

The expansion valve, which is also called the metering device, regulates the liquid refrigerant that passes through to the evaporator. This device is located on the body of the car behind the engine in which the gas pipeline passes through.

Those factors that cause the damage of a compressor and condenser are also responsible to the damage of expansion valve.

Evaporator:

The liquid refrigerant that passes through the expansion valve is now converted to gaseous form by the evaporator. The evaporator absorbed heat from the car cabin which facilitate the conversion of the liquid refrigerant to gaseous refrigerant. The evaporator is located inside the dashboard.

Again, the factors that cause the damage of a compressor and condenser are also responsible to the damage of expansion valve.

See: Common car air conditioning problems

Blower Fan

Once the evaporator has absorbed the heat inside the vehicle, the blower fan helps to blow air into the evaporator. The cool air is then directed to the vents in the car where it escaped out to the vehicle cabin. The blower fan is usually located under the dashboard by the passage side. The following are key signs of bad blower:

1. Rattling, Clanking or screeching noise
2. No adequate air from the vent
3. Air conditioning goes from cold to hot air

Other components of the AC system include the piping system which allow the passage of gas to the above elements. A dirty AC pipe can easily damage the compressor or the other system such as condenser and evaporator. It is necessary to constantly flush the radiator and replace the AC Filter at least twice yearly.

Conclusively, it is recommended the AC technician carries out a detailed examination of the above components in order to determine the faulty ones during AC repairs. Car owners are also expected to carry out regular car AC maintenance, cleaning and flushing the systems, replacing the AC filter on time to avoid the system getting damaged.  

The Vonos Autos Experience

When it comes to AC repairs for your vehicle, Vonos Autos stands out as the premier destination for top-notch service and expertise. Our team of highly skilled technicians specializes in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of AC issues, ensuring that your car’s cooling system is restored to optimal functionality. With years of experience in the automotive industry, we have earned a reputation for excellence and reliability.

At Vonos Autos, we go above and beyond to provide personalized attention and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a major repair, you can trust us to deliver unparalleled quality and attention to detail. Don’t let AC problems disrupt your driving experience—visit Vonos Autos today and experience the difference firsthand.