When driving on a hot day, there’s nothing more comforting than your car’s air conditioning. But if it’s doing a poor job of cooling you down and warms you up instead, then something is wrong with the system. Car AC issues run a gamut of possibilities—from broken auto parts to loose connections—so it’s important to troubleshoot the problem before finding the right part for repairs.

Why Your Auto Air Conditioning Isn’t Cooling

1. Leaking Refrigerant

Refrigerant is a crucial part of your car AC system since it absorbs heat from the cabin in its gaseous form. It reverts to its liquid state after compression then moves through the system, repeating the cooling cycle. But when the refrigerant accidentally leaks out through small cracks in hoses and around the seals, the AC won’t have enough to keep your cabin cool.

2. Faulty Condenser

The condenser is another major AC component, which dissipates heat from the hot refrigerant, similar to the engine’s radiator. When it is clogged with debris or punctured, the overheated refrigerant will remain in the system, resulting in hot air blowing out of the vents. The only way to fix a damaged condenser is to replace it.

3. Failing Compressor

This auto part compresses the overheated refrigerant gas to a higher pressure before moving it to the condenser to repeat the cooling process. Without a functional compressor, expect the air coming out to be warm instead of cool. Compressors often seize up from a lack of use during the colder months. As such, remember to run the AC occasionally during the seasons when you don’t need it.

4. Electrical Issue

Sometimes, your AC’s lack of cold air can be traced to an electrical problem. Frayed wires, loose connections, blown fuses, and faulty pressure switches may cause your air conditioning system to run hot after a period of cooling.

5. Broken Fan or Blower Motor

When there’s no air flowing out of your vehicle’s cooling system, the problem may be due to a faulty blower motor. This controls the fan that blows air into your cabin, and without it, cooled air won’t make it inside. Similarly, a damaged ventilation fan will yield the same results. Have these inspected and replaced, as needed.   

If your vehicles AC system is underperforming, head over to Blue Lick Truck & Van Parts to find the replacement auto parts you need. As the trusted auto salvage yard located in Louisville, KY, they carry an extensive range of quality used car parts for many vehicle makes and models. Call (502) 955-1599 for auto parts availability or check out their website to learn how they can help.