How to Fix a Car Air Conditioner Not Cooling?

[VonRose]

If there is too much refrigerant, some can be released from the low-pressure side service port of the air conditioning system. If there is insufficient refrigerant, it should be replenished promptly. If the compressor drive belt is loose, it should be tightened. If the drive belt is too tight, it should be loosened slightly. If the drive belt shows signs of cracking, aging, or other damage, it should be replaced with a new one. Use a soft brush to clean dirt from the surface of the condenser.

[StLydia]

When I first started driving, the sudden loss of AC cooling really startled me. It could be that the refrigerant has completely leaked out, causing the system pressure to be too low for the compressor to start; or the AC filter might be too dirty, blocking the air ducts and preventing cold air from coming out. When checking, first listen for any unusual noises in the engine bay—abnormal compressor operation can produce a rattling sound. Feel the condenser pipes with your hand; if they're frosted over, it indicates a problem. Hot weather and dust can easily clog the radiator fins, affecting efficiency. The solution is to regularly clean the filter and top up the refrigerant at a small shop every six months—it's not expensive. But if there's a serious leak, head to a professional repair shop immediately for leak testing and repairs to avoid damaging other components.

[HaleyRose]

I've been driving for over ten years and have encountered air conditioning not cooling issues several times. The most common problems are refrigerant leaks or compressor failure. For the former, using a UV light to check for leaks makes it obvious; for the latter, pressing the AC button yields no response. A stuck fan or a malfunctioning thermostat switch can also cause insufficient heat dissipation, making it prone to overheating in summer. Solution steps: First, DIY check if the fuse is blown or the filter is clogged, which is cost-effective and quick. When the system pressure is abnormal, the low-pressure pipe being too hot indicates poor cooling. Professional testing requires a pressure gauge to check the refrigerant level, with the standard value being 25-40 PSI. Don't forget to check if the expansion valve is clogged. For safety, don't take risks on the highway; go to a repair shop as soon as possible.

[MartinAnn]

As a car enthusiast, I believe that air conditioning not cooling is often due to issues in the refrigeration system. For example, aging compressor coils, condenser fins blocked by insects, or a failed expansion valve preventing refrigerant circulation. During inspection, open the hood to check if the compressor belt is slipping; if the vent temperature exceeds 10 degrees, it indicates an abnormality. Cleaning the filter and radiator yourself can provide temporary relief, but core issues require professional diagnostic equipment. When the temperature sensor fails, manual temperature adjustment is ineffective. Solution: Avoid randomly purchasing and adding refrigerant; instead, visit a 4S shop for a comprehensive inspection to prevent incorrect repairs.