What Causes a Car Air Conditioner to Break Down?
2 Answers
Car air conditioner malfunctions can be attributed to the following reasons: Damaged Air Vent Flap: The flap motor is typically located in the lower middle section of the dashboard and serves as the master switch for air vents. If it fails, the switch is effectively broken. Even if the AC can produce cold air, the airflow will only seep through gaps, akin to quenching thirst with poison. Faulty Expansion Valve or Throttle Valve: The air conditioning compressor rarely fails, so it's not a major concern. However, malfunctions in the expansion valve or throttle valve directly lead to poor AC performance. Diagnosing these issues is complex and requires professional repair services. Loose or Aged Belt: The belt is often an overlooked component. During routine maintenance, 4S shops usually recommend belt replacement. If neglected, slipping may occur during operation, leading to belt breakage, unusual noises, loss of power assistance, and poor AC performance.
When my car's air conditioning breaks down, it's really frustrating. Possible causes include refrigerant leaks, where insufficient refrigerant in the system leads to no cooling at all; blown fuses, such as the AC circuit fuse which can easily melt due to excessive current; compressor failure is another common issue, producing abnormal noises or not running at all; problems with the fan or blower can also affect airflow; a clogged air filter weakens airflow, resulting in insufficient cooling. During long drives, I pay attention to any unusual noises from the AC and address them immediately if detected. AC failure in hot weather is dangerous and can easily lead to heatstroke; so whenever there's an issue, I take it straight to the repair shop where professionals can quickly check the pressure and pipes. Regularly replacing the filter and maintaining the AC can prevent malfunctions, making summer drives more comfortable.
