What are the symptoms of a clogged automotive expansion valve?

[JoyRose]

Automotive expansion valve clogging manifests as frost formation at the small filter screen area of the inlet, accompanied by intermittent and uneven airflow sounds. The following are specific details about expansion valves: 1. Symptoms of a faulty expansion valve: The low-pressure pipe not feeling cold to touch, frosting on the dryer and condenser, abnormal high and low pressures, and abnormal temperature of the high-pressure pipe. 2. Function of the expansion valve: The expansion valve serves a throttling function. High-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant passes through the throttling orifice of the expansion valve, becoming a low-temperature, low-pressure mist-like hydraulic refrigerant, creating conditions for the refrigerant's evaporation.

[EmiliaLynn]

I've driven several cars, and expansion valve clogging is quite common. That one summer, the AC blew no cold air at all, and the compressor was making terrible noises, like it was struggling. After inspection, we found the expansion valve completely blocked by debris. This component controls refrigerant flow - when clogged, the entire AC system shuts down, blowing only hot air, which was extremely uncomfortable. I've also heard that prolonged disuse of the AC allows dirt to accumulate, making clogs more likely. If not repaired promptly, the overloaded compressor could fail, leading to much higher repair costs. My advice to car owners: don't ignore this issue - get it professionally flushed or parts replaced immediately. Regular maintenance helps too, like cleaning the AC lines every two years, which can prevent many headaches.

[VanRowan]

As someone who frequently repairs cars, a clogged expansion valve is quite typical. It controls the flow of refrigerant to the evaporator. When it's clogged, the refrigerant can't pass through, and the air conditioning fails, with very obvious symptoms: the temperature at the vents rises sharply, the compressor makes unusually loud noises, and sometimes the high-side pressure spikes. Diagnosis is simple—we can detect the issue using a pressure gauge. Clogs are mostly caused by impurities or moisture corrosion. If not addressed promptly, it can damage the entire system, such as overloading the compressor. I recommend that drivers get the expansion valve checked as soon as they notice the air conditioning isn't working properly—just cleaning or replacing it won't cost much. Regularly changing the cabin air filter can also reduce the risk.

[McGenesis]

The year I started driving, I encountered a clogged expansion valve and the AC stopped cooling completely. Turns out the expansion valve controls the refrigerant flow - when blocked, refrigerant can't circulate, so the air doesn't get cold. Symptoms are easy to spot: air temperature won't drop after starting the car, and the compressor makes a buzzing noise. This significantly impacts driving comfort, especially in hot weather. A mechanic can fix it easily by cleaning out the debris. If you experience similar issues, don't delay - get it repaired early for peace of mind.