What to Do When the Car Air Conditioning is Not Cooling?
2 Answers
Reasons and solutions for car air conditioning not cooling are as follows: 1. Dirty air filter. If the filter is too dirty, it not only causes more impurities to be sucked into the car, which is harmful to health, but also blocks the air filter, reducing the cooling effect of the air conditioning. It is recommended to replace the air filter every 10,000 kilometers to ensure both the efficiency of the air conditioning and the health of passengers. 2. Insufficient or leaking refrigerant. Refrigerant, also known as Freon, is essential for cooling. If the refrigerant is low or insufficient, the cooling effect will decline or even stop. This can be easily fixed by refilling the refrigerant at a repair shop. If the air conditioning stops cooling again within a few months after refilling (normally, refrigerant should be refilled every 2-3 years), it may indicate a leak in the system, requiring professional repair. 3. Worn or loose belt. If you hear a 'squeaking' noise when turning on the air conditioning, the issue might be a loose compressor belt. Tightening the belt can solve the problem. Belts, made of rubber, have a limited lifespan and need replacement if they are too old. 4. Dirty condenser. If the condenser is not cleaned regularly, dirt and debris can cover it, preventing it from dissipating heat properly, which is another reason for the air conditioning not cooling.
Last month during a long drive, my car's AC suddenly stopped cooling, making it extremely uncomfortable. First, don't panic—check the simple things yourself: pop the hood and see if the AC system's fuse is blown (usually found in the fuse box near the driver's seat). Also, inspect the cabin air filter; if it's clogged with dust over time, airflow weakens, but replacing it is easy. Low refrigerant is a common issue—listen for unusual sounds when the AC runs, like hissing, which could indicate a leak. Additionally, compressor or belt failures can cause cooling loss; a seized compressor often makes noise. I recommend troubleshooting from easy to complex fixes. If DIY doesn’t work, head to a professional repair shop promptly to prevent minor issues from worsening comfort and safety. Don’t delay in summer heat—fix the AC before hitting the road again.
