Expert Advice

What are signs that your air conditioning needs repair?

During summer months, as the temperatures rise, the demand on your car or truck’s air conditioner grows. Over time you may notice that it isn’t cooling as well as it used to. O’Leary’s auto repair center is able to tune up your vehicle’s air conditioner and get it working as good as new.

Common Signs Your AC Needs Repaired

If you notice any of these common issues, your air conditioner might need some attention:

• Weak Air — Your air conditioner may be blowing cold air, but when you turn it to the max position the air is weak or doesn’t increase like it used to.
• Warm Air — The air conditioner may be blowing cold air, but when you turn it to the coldest position the air does not become cooler.
• Inconsistent Air — When you turn on your air condition the air temperature and pressure feels right, but then a few minutes later warmer air starts coming out of the vents.
• Foul Smell — Air temperature and pressure may be spot on, but a strange smell seems to be emitting from the vents when you turn on your air conditioner. The smell could be a sign of a dirty filter or mold and mildew building up in the parts.
• Unusual Noises — All seems to be running smoothly but over time you start to hear a squealing or clanking when you turn on the air conditioner. In good working order, your air conditioner should run relatively quietly, with the main sound being the fan circulating the air.

Additional Signs Your AC Needs Repaired

These common issues with your vehicle’s air conditioner can be caused by the following:

• Refrigerant Leak — A leak can occur in the air condition compressor, condenser or
  evaporator. Low refrigerant coolant can cause warmer air to blow from the system. The air conditioner system is sealed, so a low refrigerant level indicates a leak that needs to be addressed.
• Compressor Issues — The compressor is the part of the air conditioning system that circulates the cool air throughout the vehicle and removes the hot air. Like other parts of the vehicle, the compressor can wear out over time.
• Electrical Issues — The electrical system controls just about every aspect of your vehicle. Any issues with the wires or fuses can cause problems with the air conditioner. These can cause the air conditioner to work inconsistently or stop altogether.

Auto Repair Center Specializing in Vehicle A/C Repair

Without the proper equipment and level of experience, diagnosing air conditioner issues can be difficult. O’Leary’s Automotive Repair is a local auto repair center with skilled mechanics able to isolate and fix any issues related to your air conditioner. We offer a free air conditioning performance check to ensure everything is in working order. With four convenient locations, O’Leary’s Automotive Repair Centers have mechanics throughout the greater Wilmington area who will service and repair your car the correct way, the first time. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about our services.