When the weather starts to become warmer, you might have concerns about your car’s air conditioner. Since several different auto parts could be at fault, many people wonder where they should start looking for trouble, and what they can do to ward off future issues. Here is some vital information about your car’s air conditioner, which auto parts may be causing trouble, and how to prevent problems down the line.

Common Causes of AC Issues

Some of the most common auto parts that can fail and contribute to issues with your car’s air conditioner include the compressor, condenser, or expansion valve. Unfortunately, simple issues such as a leaky refrigerant line or a clogged air filter can also contribute to problems. Your vehicle’s compressor is responsible for drawing refrigerant into the air conditioner and compressing it, creating a low-pressure system that facilitates humidity removal and air cooling.

If this auto part becomes damaged, the refrigerant in your AC unit won’t be able to cool the air, and your car may become muggy. Your condenser is responsible for removing heat from your system, and the expansion valve controls the amount of refrigerant that enters the air conditioner. Issues with any of these auto parts could create an unstable cooling environment inside of your car. 

Signs of Trouble

Before your air conditioner fails, it could give you a few signs that things have started to turn for the worse. When fans start to fail, they can spin unevenly, creating noise. Loose panels and hoses could move more than they should when your air conditioner switches on, creating even more noise. If your air conditioner starts to smell bad, it could indicate that mold or mildew has started to grow inside of air vents or refrigerant lines. 

Maintaining Your Air Conditioner

In addition to replacing auto parts that have seen better days, you should keep your system in good shape by running the air conditioner regularly. Additionally, air conditioner filters should be replaced at least once a year or every 15,000 to 25,000 miles. 

If your car’s air conditioner has started to develop problems, visit Blue Lick Truck & Van Parts to look for the auto parts you need. In addition to offering a large salvage yard with a variety of different car makes and models, this auto parts business also focuses on quality and backs up their products with warranties. Learn more about how they can help by sending them a quick message online or by calling their company at (502) 955-1599.