During the midst of summer, sliding into your hot vehicle and waiting for the air conditioning to start working can be uncomfortable. However, the situation gets worse if your AC doesn’t function at all. Furthermore, this kind of problem could signal a deeper issue with your vehicle. The following auto repair guide looks at some possible causes.

Why Your Car’s Air Conditioner Isn’t Working

1. Low Amount of Refrigerant

Like all automotive fluids, air conditioning refrigerant gets used up under basic operating conditions and will need to be refilled eventually. When it runs out, it causes your unit to blast warm air instead of cool. You should normally need recharge it every few years.

If you find yourself replenishing it more frequently, there may be a leak. It could be linked to a cracked hose or loose connection within the air conditioning system. If it’s the hose, it will need to be replaced, but if it’s a loose gasket, tightening it up should help.

2. Faulty AC Compressor

Responsible for pushing the refrigerant through the system, the compressor is essentially the heart of your air conditioner. If it’s not working correctly, your AC won’t turn on at all. Low refrigerant levels, an overheated engine, and belt issues are often to blame. Because these are vastly different situations, have an auto repair specialist examine your vehicle to pinpoint the source of the problem.

3. Electrical Problems

Like many car parts, your air conditioner relies on complex wiring and other components to operate in concert with the vehicle. Frayed wiring, failed switches, or a blown fuse can cause it to malfunction or cease working completely.

Make sure to have an auto repair specialist fix the problem as soon as possible. If ignored for too long, electrical issues can cause acid buildup, which can damage the entire air conditioning system to the point it needs replacement.

If your car’s air conditioner is malfunctioning, make an appointment with Stillwater Auto Clinic in Minnesota. For more than 40 years, they’ve served Washington County and the surrounding areas. Thanks to their highly trained mechanics, you can trust they’ll diagnose and repair the problem quickly. Learn more about their auto services on their website. To schedule an appointment, call (651) 351-7188 today.