What are A/C services?
Vehicle air conditioning (A/C) service is essential for maintaining a comfortable interior temperature and ensuring the proper functioning of your car’s A/C system.
What happens during a vehicle A/C service?
- Visual Inspection: The technician will visually inspect the A/C system for any obvious signs of damage, leaks, or worn components. This may include inspecting hoses, belts, condenser, compressor, and other A/C system components.
- System Pressure Check: Using specialized equipment, the technician will check the pressure levels in the A/C system to ensure they are within the manufacturer’s specified range. Low or high pressure could indicate a problem with the system.
- Leak Detection: If the system pressure is low, indicating a potential leak, the technician will use a UV dye or leak detection tool to locate the source of the leak. Common areas for leaks include hoses, fittings, O-rings, and the A/C compressor.
- Refrigerant Evacuation: If the A/C system needs to be serviced or repaired, the refrigerant will need to be evacuated from the system using a specialized recovery machine. This ensures that the refrigerant is safely removed and can be properly disposed of or recycled.
- Repairs or Replacements: Depending on the findings of the inspection, repairs or replacements may be necessary. This could involve replacing damaged hoses, O-rings, seals, or components such as the compressor or condenser.
- Recharging the System: Once any necessary repairs have been completed and leaks have been addressed, the A/C system will be recharged with refrigerant to the manufacturer’s specified capacity. The technician will also add oil if necessary.
- Performance Test: After recharging the system, the technician will perform a performance test to ensure that the A/C system is operating correctly and blowing cold air at the appropriate temperature.
- Cabin Air Filter Replacement: In some cases, the cabin air filter may also be replaced during an A/C service to ensure clean airflow into the vehicle’s interior.
Why it matters
Regular A/C service helps maintain the efficiency and reliability of your vehicle’s A/C system, ensuring that it keeps you cool and comfortable during hot weather. It’s recommended to have your vehicle’s A/C system serviced annually or as needed to address any issues that may arise.