Where Does the Refrigerant Leak in a Car Air Conditioner Usually Occur?
2 Answers
Refrigerant leaks in car air conditioners typically occur at the joints of the air conditioning pipes, the expansion valve, the compressor, the evaporator, and other components. Below are detailed explanations of the causes of refrigerant leaks in car air conditioners: 1. Pipe failure. When laying the connecting pipes between the indoor and outdoor units of the air conditioner, if the bending angle of the pipes is too small, it can cause the pipes to crack and leak refrigerant or result in no refrigerant. When laying the connecting pipes between the indoor and outdoor units, the bending radius of the pipes should be appropriately increased to prevent the pipes from being bent too sharply. Leaking pipes should be promptly repaired or replaced. 2. Leak points in the refrigeration system. When replacing parts of the refrigeration system, if the parts are not installed tightly during secondary installation, leak points for refrigerant can develop in the pipes and the refrigeration system. Apply a moderately thick soapy water solution to the entire refrigeration system pipes and welded areas to check for leaks. The testing conditions require the refrigeration system to be filled with nitrogen or refrigerant. Pay close attention to areas with oil stains on the pipes, identify the leak points one by one, and repair or replace the parts based on the actual situation.
As someone who frequently deals with car repairs, I can tell you that the most common locations for refrigerant leaks in sedan air conditioning systems include pipe joints, compressor seals, and condenser areas. The joints on the pipelines tend to loosen due to long-term vibrations, and when the sealing rings age or deform, they can cause the refrigerant to slowly seep out. The condenser, located at the front of the car, is often damaged by small stones, leading to leaks. I've seen many cases where the evaporator leaks from internal pipes beneath the dashboard, usually due to corrosion or loose pipe connections. Another common spot is the compressor's shaft seal or O-ring, which wears out over time, allowing the refrigerant to leak bit by bit. During inspections, I use UV lights or soap bubbles to locate bubbles, which helps pinpoint the exact fault location. I recommend regular checks of the air conditioning system, especially for older cars or after driving in hot weather, to address issues early and avoid poor cooling performance and increased repair costs. When doing DIY repairs, safety comes first—avoid tampering with high-pressure pipelines.
