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Common Problems With Car Air Conditioning Systems

We rely upon them to keep us cool while we’re driving in high temperatures. Yet, the majority of motorists only think of their vehicle’s air conditioner in the event that it malfunctions. Hidden from view, your A/C unit is actually a complex system of multiple parts. A number of things can potentially go wrong with any of them.

In this article, we’ll explore a few of the most common problems that occur with automotive air conditioning units. I’ll explain what causes the issues, how they manifest, and how to resolve them.

Leaking Refrigerant

A lot of older vehicles experience A/C problems because there isn’t enough refrigerant within the assembly. Sometimes, the refrigerant will simply “run out” after years of use. Other times, a leak can develop in the AC compressor or evaporator. There are also several places along the hoses where a refrigerant leak can develop. This is often due to connectors (for example, the spring-lock couplings) which have eroded or loosened over time.

If you notice a cooling issue while driving, ask your mechanic to check for any leaks before recharging the unit. Otherwise, the refrigerant that your mechanic adds to the system will simply dissipate again.

Sporadic Temperatures

You might notice the air which blows from your car’s A/C feels alternatively warm and cool. The reason this happens is typically because moisture finds its way into the assembly. As a result, ice develops and obstructs the orifice tube near the evaporator. Your mechanic should have access to equipment that can be used to identify moisture. If necessary, he can use a vacuum pump to push the moisture out.

Sporadic temperatures can also occur as a result of a problem in your vehicle’s electrical system. For example, the compressor clutch may not receive a sufficient electrical charge from the battery. When the charge doesn’t carry enough voltage, the clutch can fail to trigger the compressor.

Noisy Compressor Or Smelly Air

Noise can come from the hoses or any components that are shaking near the engine, of course. That said, if you identify the AC compressor as the source of the noise, plan to invest in a replacement. The price will depend upon the kind of car you’re driving, but expect to spend a few hundred dollars.

Another common issue with a car’s air conditioner is that it can discharge a strange (some might describe it as foul) odor. This is normally the result of bacteria having settled on the evaporator. Aside from replacing the entire unit, your auto technician can probably use a special chemical to clear out the problem.

From refrigerant leaks to sporadic air temperatures, and noisy compressors to smelly evaporators, your car’s A/C system can develop a number of issues. Fortunately, most of them can be solved reasonably quickly without breaking the bank.

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How To Operate Your Vehicle’s Cruise Control

In virtually every car that rolls off the factory line, cruise control is a standard, albeit mostly ignored accessory. This feature allows drivers to set a speed and then remove their foot from the gas pedal. A lot of motorists consider it a necessity for long road trips. But, it’s important to note that the feature is only effective on long stretches of open road.

This article will explain how cruise control works. I’ll describe how you can activate it, modify the settings, and disable it, if necessary.

Setting The System

In most vehicles, the cruise control is designated by a series of buttons: “On/Off,” “Set,” and “Resume.” The specific layout will vary slightly depending upon the make and model you’re driving, but it follows this pattern. When you press the “On” button, the system is activated and your car awaits further instruction from you.

Once the “On” button has been depressed, press the “Set” button. The “Set” button instructs your car to maintain the current speed at which you’re traveling. In some makes and models, pressing this button may increase the speed in predefined increments.

At any point when you’re driving with the cruise control activated, it is disabled the moment you press on your brake pedal. If you want to resume the previous speed, simply press the “Resume” button. To slow down without using the brake, some cars have a “Coast” button that reduces the speed by a preset increment. Along with pressing the brake pedal, cars have an off switch that simply disengages the system.

Looking Beneath The Surface

Cruise control manipulates your vehicle’s speed in the same manner as you would while driving “manually”: by changing the throttle position. However, it uses a mechanical actuator that moves the throttle valve, whereas you would engage the accelerator pedal. Because the speed of your car depends on the amount of air in the fuel mixture, an open throttle allows more air and produces more power; a partially open throttle allows less air for a reduced output.

Because the throttle is connected to two cables, one leading to the actuator and the other to the pedal, moving the throttle in any way will manipulate both lines. This is the reason why you’ll notice your gas pedal is moving up and down when the cruise control is engaged.

Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, the actuator could be powered by engine vacuum. Engine vacuum is the difference between intake manifold pressure and atmospheric pressure. In the case of the actuator, this pressure difference is enough to power the device and is controlled by a valve in the assembly which adjusts diaphragm pressure.

There is one limitation which this feature. Up until a few years ago, motorists had to be aware of other automobiles in front of them that were moving more slowly. Otherwise, a collision was imminent. Today, vehicles are being equipped with sensors that can identify slower cars and compensate in order to avoid contact.

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The Savvy Guide To Test Driving A Car

A lot of motorists visit their local dealership, find their “perfect” vehicle, and drive it home only to regret their decision later. Aside from buying more vehicle than they can afford, the regret is often due to making a hasty decision. In truth, motorists are easily seduced into purchasing cars based on subjective factors. A vehicle’s sleek, flawless exterior combined with the new scent of its interior can be distracting.

This article will help you retain your objectivity when visiting your local dealer. I’ll describe how to properly test drive a vehicle to ensure that you don’t regret your purchase decision down the road.

Arrive At The Dealership Prepared

A little research goes a long way. Invest the time to look at professional reviews of the specific make and model you’re considering. Look at horsepower, fuel efficiency, and available space. Make a note about what reviewers thought of the car’s handling in a variety of driving circumstances. Also, memorize the model’s standard features as well as the options you prefer to avoid. When the salesperson greets you on the dealership lot, you’ll already have a great idea regarding what the automobile can and cannot do.

Set The Expectation

Salespeople sell. That’s their job. Unfortunately, they often try to do so while you’re test driving the car. In some cases, the information they’re giving you will be helpful; it can make your decision easier. However, the talking can also be extremely distracting. Ask the salesperson in advance to let you test drive without their talking during the ride. Explain that you’d prefer to concentrate on the driving experience rather than engaging in conversation.

Put It Through Its Paces

Doing a thorough test drive means taking a car on an assortment of road surfaces. You’ll want to drive on normal surface streets in order to test how smooth the ride is. But, you should also drive over bumpy terrain. That’s the best way to feel whether the suspension is solid.

Also, take turns at different speeds to check how well the vehicle hugs the road. Accelerate and stop quickly to check pedal response, engine power, and brake sensitivity. If you don’t put the car through its paces, you won’t know what it’s capable – or incapable – of doing.

Keep Your Comfort In Mind

You’re going to spend a lot of time inside whatever vehicle you purchase. You need to make sure you’ll be riding in comfort. Check to see how long it takes the air conditioner and heating unit to change the interior’s temperature. While you’re sitting in the driver’s seat, reach for all of the controls to check whether they’re comfortably accessible to you. Adjust the driver’s seat to see whether doing so is easy.

Don’t underestimate the value of doing a rigorous test drive. While knowing a car’s specs (i.e. horsepower, gas mileage, etc.) before arriving at the dealership is helpful, putting it through its paces should play a major role in your decision to buy.

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