How to Deal with a Leaking Car Evaporator?
2 Answers
Remove all the air conditioning screws, the evaporator box will block the blower, pry it loose, then separate the lower blower part, and take out the blower. The expansion valve is connected to the evaporator. Once pressure is applied, bubbles appear at the edges of the expansion valve adjustment screw, confirming the expansion valve is leaking. Replace it with a new expansion valve. Reinstall the air conditioning system in reverse order, add refrigerant, and the air conditioning will resume cooling.
An evaporator leak is no small matter. I've fixed many car AC issues, and this situation needs immediate attention. The evaporator is inside the AC system, responsible for cooling the air. If it leaks, the refrigerant escapes. First, check if the AC emits a strange odor or isn't cooling properly—these are likely signs of a leak. Don't attempt a DIY fix, as pinpointing the exact leak requires specialized tools like UV lights or bubble test solutions. I recommend driving straight to a repair shop. The mechanic will inspect the evaporator box for corrosion or cracks. If the crack is small, it might be weldable; if the whole unit is damaged, it'll need replacement, followed by recharging with R134a refrigerant, which also requires vacuuming. The entire process could cost a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the car model. Don't forget, long-term neglect can lead to more severe damage, like compressor burnout, increasing repair costs. With a leak-free AC, driving becomes safe and comfortable.
