Don’t Wait Until the Dog Days of Summer: How to Know You Need a Car AC Repair

Jun 10, 2020 | Automotive Advice, Blog, Car Maintenance, Cooling System, Total Car Care

Car AC vents

Summer heat and humidity can be killer. The last thing you want in the middle of the afternoon on a hot day is for your car’s vents to suddenly blow nothing but hot air. That means now is the perfect time to get your car’s cooling system checked out and know the signs of a potential problem with your AC before you run into real trouble.

Related: What is in a Multi-Point Inspection?
Related: Reasons Your Car Is Overheating Infographic
Related: High Mileage Car Maintenance

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    Pay Attention to Sights, Sounds, and Smells with Your AC

    There are a variety of symptoms that part of your car’s cooling system is about to give out – or already has. Some are more obvious than others but knowing all the possible signs will help you catch a potential problem sooner rather than later, which can help prevent bigger repair costs, as well as being stuck driving home in the summer heat.

    A/C dashboard

    Take Note if the Air Feels Warmer Than It Should

    This may seem like common sense but if only warm air comes out of your vents when the car’s AC is turned on, this is a sure sign that you have a problem. It also may be a less obvious difference in temperature. If it feels a bit more humid, not quite as cold, or just like your car can’t quite keep up with cooling the passenger compartment, it’s likely you have a problem looming with your fan, radiator, or some other part of the cooling system.

    Strange Noises from Your Vents

    Any time you hear strange noises like banging or rattling, it’s cause for concern. When you do hear different noises, it helps to pay attention to timing, since that can point you in the right direction as to how you can fix the problem. If it starts when you turn on your AC, it’s a likely indication that part of your cooling system is wearing out or could be clogged. If this is the case, you should get your car to a trusted mechanic as soon as possible to get it fixed.

    Bad Smells When You Turn on the AC Can Mean Mold

    Sometimes, you may notice a different smell when your car is running. This can be fine or possibly a sign that you have an exhaust repair in your future. However, if the smell occurs specifically when you turn on your car’s AC, that’s a warning sign that you have mold in the AC unit, which can be hazardous to your health. If this is the case, you should get your car to a mechanic right away for diagnosis and repair by a mechanic.

    Bad smells

    Look for Water Stains in Your Car

    After your car’s AC has been running for a while, it’s normal for water to drain out the bottom of the car. However, if that water is draining into your car instead and causing water stains on the inside of your car, that’s a sign that there is a problem with the drains for your cooling system. This could be as simple as a clog or more serious damage. Either way, it should be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your car and its cooling system.

    Pay Attention to Possible AC Leaks

    A leak anywhere in your cooling system can cause problems with how well your AC runs. Low pressure in your AC unit, as well as seeing coolant spots beneath your car, is an indication that you have a leak. You can also check your coolant level by looking under the hood. If you suspect a leak, it’s time to get your car to a mechanic for inspection to make sure it’s fixed before leading to bigger problems.

    When it Comes to Car AC Repair, AAMCO Central Florida Has You Covered

    No matter what car repairs you need, the expert mechanics at AAMCO Central Florida are here to help get you safely back on the road again. Even small problems can lead to much bigger repairs when left unchecked, so whenever you suspect a problem with your car’s cooling system or any other major system in your car, it’s important to get it fixed sooner rather than later. We offer easy online appointment scheduling to make the process as stress-free as possible.

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