What are the reasons for the car air conditioner not cooling after prolonged use?
2 Answers
There are several reasons why a car air conditioner may stop cooling after prolonged use: Lack of refrigerant: Car air conditioners generally require refrigerant replenishment every 2 to 3 years, which is also a form of vehicle maintenance. In reality, even if the air conditioning system is tightly sealed, refrigerant can still escape, especially if there are minor leaks in the air conditioning pipes or condenser. Damaged air conditioning flap: The flap motor is usually located in the lower middle part of the instrument panel and serves as the main switch for the air conditioning vents. If it fails, it means the switch is broken, and even if the air conditioner can produce cold air, the cold air can only escape through gaps. Be cautious when this happens, as replacing the flap motor is a significant and costly repair. Dirty condenser: The main purpose of the car condenser is heat dissipation. During spring, substances like catkins and willow fluff can easily accumulate on the condenser, leading to engine overheating or poor air conditioning performance. Therefore, after spring, it is advisable for car owners to check if the radiator is clogged with such debris and clean it promptly to ensure normal air conditioning operation. Loose or aged belt: During routine maintenance, 4S shops often recommend replacing the belt after prolonged use. This is because an aged or loose belt can slip during vehicle operation, posing significant risks to both the car and its occupants. Regular inspection of the engine belt is essential.
The car air conditioner stops cooling after running for a long time, and I've encountered this issue several times. As a long-term car owner, I've found the most likely cause is the gradual leakage of refrigerant (Freon), leading to decreased system pressure and poor cooling performance. A loose or severely worn compressor belt can also affect efficiency, causing the overheating protection to kick in and shut down after prolonged operation. The condenser at the front of the car is prone to being clogged by dust or insects, impairing heat dissipation and causing system overheating. A dirty filter reduces airflow, making it feel like the cooling is insufficient. Last summer during a long drive, my air conditioner failed after two hours of use, and it turned out to be due to condenser buildup—cleaning it fixed the issue. Regular maintenance should include checking refrigerant levels and cleaning the condenser. Address any issues promptly at a repair shop to prevent minor problems from becoming costly repairs.
