Driving in a car with a broken air conditioning system can be quite uncomfortable, especially during hot summer days. It’s even worse when you have to deal with a long commute or a road trip. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to fix a broken AC in your car. Here’s what you need to know.
Step 1: Check the Fuses
The first thing you should do when your car AC is not working is to check the fuses. The AC system may have blown a fuse, which is a common issue. Check the owner’s manual to locate the fuse box, and then check the AC fuse to see if it’s blown. If it is, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
Step 2: Inspect the AC Compressor
If the fuses are not the issue, you should inspect the AC compressor. The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant and circulating it through the AC system. If the compressor is not working, the AC system won’t be able to cool the car. Check the compressor for signs of damage or leaks, and replace it if necessary.
Step 3: Check the Refrigerant Level
The refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in the AC system. If the refrigerant level is low, the AC system may not work properly. Check the refrigerant level using a gauge, and add more refrigerant if necessary. Be careful not to overfill the system, as this can cause damage.
Step 4: Check the AC Condenser
The AC condenser is responsible for releasing the heat absorbed by the refrigerant. If the condenser is dirty or damaged, it may not be able to release the heat properly, which can cause the AC system to malfunction. Check the condenser for signs of damage or dirt, and clean or replace it if necessary.
Step 5: Check the AC Evaporator
The AC evaporator is responsible for absorbing the heat from the air in the car. If the evaporator is dirty or damaged, it may not be able to absorb the heat properly, which can cause the AC system to malfunction. Check the evaporator for signs of damage or dirt, and clean or replace it if necessary.
Step 6: Check the AC Clutch
The AC clutch is responsible for engaging and disengaging the compressor. If the AC clutch is not working properly, the compressor may not be able to function properly, which can cause the AC system to malfunction. Check the AC clutch for signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
Step 7: Check the AC Belt
The AC belt is responsible for turning the AC compressor. If the AC belt is loose or damaged, it may not be able to turn the compressor properly, which can cause the AC system to malfunction. Check the AC belt for signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
Step 8: Check the AC Control Module
The AC control module is responsible for controlling the AC system. If the control module is not working properly, the AC system may not be able to function properly. Check the control module for signs of damage or malfunctions, and replace it if necessary.
Step 9: Check the AC Sensors
The AC sensors are responsible for regulating the temperature and pressure in the AC system. If the sensors are not working properly, the AC system may not be able to function properly. Check the sensors for signs of damage or malfunctions, and replace them if necessary.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help
If you have tried all of these steps and your AC system is still not working properly, it may be time to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and repair the AC system for you.