A functioning auto air conditioning system brings quick relief from the sweltering heat — something that you’ll need when driving during the spring and summer. So when it pumps out hot air instead of cold, this is a clear indication that it’s overdue for maintenance. Pay attention to the five signs below that your car’s AC is starting to lose its cool.

5 Indications It’s Time for Auto AC Maintenance

1. Bad Odors

A telltale sign that your auto air conditioning requires professional attention is a musty smell coming from your vents. If you notice foul odors wafting into the cabin when you turn on the AC, it may be time to replace or clean the old, dirty cabin air filters. For persistent smells, it’s likely that you have mold growth because of a moldy evaporator case.

2. Water Stains

Because of the cooling process, it’s normal to see water dripping from under the car. When this doesn’t happen due to a clogged hose drain, it means that the water has nowhere to go but inside the cabin. Look for damp areas like under the dashboard or by the floor mats, and take your vehicle to an auto repair center before things take a turn for the worst.  

3. Warm Air

If your AC blows warm air, it’s a surefire sign that it needs routine maintenance. A repair technician will look for the reason why — such as a blocked expansion valve or damaged compressor clutch. It can also be because of coolant leaks or something as simple as a blown fuse in the cooling system.

4. Strange Noises

Unusual sounds coming from your car is never a positive sign. If you hear rattling or banging noises when switching on the auto air conditioning, it can be traced to loose debris in the fan, a faulty component like condenser or belt, or both. Have a trained mechanic take a look at what’s causing the racket in your AC.

5. Weak Airflow

It can be frustrating to have your auto air conditioning barely cool you down with reduced airflow. The causes are a list of multiple possibilities — from mold in the evaporator core and or faulty fan to damaged hoses and loose seals. However, if there’s an apparent lack of cold air, it may be traced to a different reason altogether, like a refrigerant leak, damaged compressor, faulty blower motor, or broken condenser.

Don’t lose your cool over faulty auto air conditioning — bring your vehicle to The Shop Auto Service in Cincinnati, OH. Serving motorists throughout the area, their ASE-certified auto mechanics have provided exceptional repairs and maintenance work — from oil changes to engine installation — for over 40 years. Call (513) 861-4445 to schedule auto service or learn more about their offerings on their website.