How to inspect a car air conditioning system?
2 Answers
Car air conditioning systems often face similar issues as home air conditioners, such as lack of cooling, poor cooling performance, or unpleasant odors. To enjoy cool air during the hot summer months, it's essential to conduct a systematic inspection of the car's air conditioning system before summer arrives. The main components to check include the compressor, refrigerant, and air conditioning hoses. Reasons for car air conditioning not cooling: 1. Lack of refrigerant: Refrigerant loss is primarily due to leaks. If the air conditioning performance is poor, and after refilling the refrigerant, the problem reoccurs after some time, there might be a leak in the condenser. 2. Dirty condenser: This can lead to issues like engine overheating or poor air conditioning performance. When cleaning, it's crucial to first use an air gun to blow away the dirt thoroughly.
When checking the car's air conditioning system, I usually start with a simple test: start the car, turn the AC to the lowest temperature and highest fan speed, and wait a while to see if the air blowing out is cold. If it's not cold, it might be due to low refrigerant or a compressor issue. Then, I listen for the compressor's normal humming sound—if it's too loud or silent, it needs inspection. The cabin air filter should also be checked—open the glove box, remove the filter, and replace it if it's too dusty, as clogging affects airflow and cooling efficiency. I also like to inspect the high and low-pressure pipes by feeling their temperature: the low-pressure pipe should be cool, while the high-pressure pipe should be slightly warm. If these steps don’t solve the issue, I use an OBD scanner to read fault codes or visit a repair shop for a refrigerant pressure test. Doing this self-check before using the AC in summer can save a lot on repairs and avoid the discomfort of a hot car. Don’t forget to have a technician fully inspect components like the evaporator and fan during regular maintenance, as system aging can drastically reduce cooling efficiency.
