Automobiles are sturdy mechanical machines designed to cut down transport times. That said, there are then some car accessories & features meant to enhance the experience & comfort of the drive, and the air-con is one of them.
Just like we service our domestic HVAC units, the car’s air-con also needs some TLC before spring starts.
A car’s AC unit is regulated by a compressor that can wear out with use and lack of maintenance of the other relevant components. This is usually obvious after a long period of no air-con usage, usually winters. Save yourself the headache of a hot car in summers now, and make your way over to Feldman CDJR of Clarkston for AC systems check.
While you’re on the road, you will also notice other signs of your AC compressor acting up. Just turn it on & tune your ears to the sounds!
1. Rattling Sounds
If you haven’t checked your air-con filters in a while, then not only is the air quality in your cockpit compromised but also the compressor is working overtime to cool the air.
This strain causes the compressor components to wear out & destabilize, causing that strange vibrating, rattling noise which is often preceded by a squealing fan belt.
2. Faulty AC Clutch
This is not the clutch you’re thinking about. Manual cars have clutches to engage drivetrains, and autos have torque convertors. The clutch mentioned here keeps the AC running when needed and regulates the strain on the component.
Sometimes, lack of maintenance can cause the clutch to get stuck on engaging or disengage, neither of which is okay. The clutch engagement makes a distinct muffle sound during driving, so if that’s absent for too long, followed by a weak cooling, then it could be the clutch.
3. Warning Lights
The dashboard ECU will light up as soon as a problem is detected in the engine bay components. If you feel like checking further, you can get an OBD-II tool that will work on any post-2011 car to access the diagnostic code specifying the ECU error for a faulty compressor: P0534.
Based on that information, it’s easier to point out to your mechanic where you need the fixing done!
4. Weak Cooling
An obvious sign of a failing compressor is reduced cooling or even warm air. That can be attributed to debris in the cabin filter, weakened bearings, and a refrigerant leak. Debris buildup makes it problematic for the compressor to dissipate heat and cool the air intake, which stresses the compressor into overdrive.
A compressor doesn’t start malfunctioning on its own; there are a lot of skipped steps in car service that can lead to a car’s HVAC misbehaving.
If you sense your AC is not up to its usual self, come over to Feldman CDJR of Clarkston, serving Linden, MI, for excellent service, specials, & OEM parts.
We’ve also got you covered on financing for parts & we offer the best ASE-certified techs & mechs on our turf. If you’ve missed out on winter service, we suggest you get to that too, plus multi-point inspection!
Schedule your car’s air-con for service today!
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