How to Fix Your Car’s AC/Heat System: A Guide for Drivers

There’s nothing worse than getting into your car on a hot day and realizing that the AC isn’t working. Or, even worse, driving in the cold winter weather and not being able to warm up your car because the heat isn’t working. In this blog post, we’re going to teach you how to fix your car’s AC/heat system. So whether you’re just trying to stay comfortable while driving or you need to fix a broken AC system, read on for our helpful tips!

Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Working

Air Filter

If your car’s AC system isn’t working, the first thing you should check is the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the AC system to work less efficiently. To clean or replace your car’s air filter, consult your car’s owner’s manual. You can usually find the air filter in a housing near the front of the car, near the engine.

Refrigerant

Another common reason your car’s AC system might not be working is a lack of refrigerant. Refrigerant is what helps cool the air that comes into your car. If there’s a leak in your car’s refrigerant system, it can cause the AC to stop working. If this is the problem, you’ll notice  a decrease in air pressure when the AC is turned on. You can usually fix a refrigerant leak by taking your car to a mechanic and having them refill the system.

Condenser

A third common reason for a malfunctioning AC system is a clogged condenser. The condenser is located at the front of the car, near the radiator. If it becomes clogged with debris, it can prevent the AC system from working properly. To clean your car’s condenser, you’ll need to remove any debris that’s blocking it. You can do this by using a brush or compressed air. Once the condenser is clear, you should notice an improvement in the performance of your car’s AC system.

If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your car’s AC system is still not working, it might be time to take it to a mechanic. There could be a more serious problem with the AC system that requires professional attention.

How to Fix Your Car’s Heat System

Coolant

The most common reason for a car’s heat system not working is a lack of coolant. If your car’s heat system isn’t working, the first thing you should check is the coolant level. You can usually find the coolant reservoir in a housing near the front of the car, near the engine. If the coolant level is low, you can refill it by using distilled water and a funnel.

Heater Core

Another common reason for a car’s heat system not working is a clogged heater core. The heater core is located in the engine compartment, n

ear the firewall. If it becomes clogged with debris, it can prevent the car from heating up properly. To clean your car’s heater core, you’ll need to remove any debris that’s blocking it. You can do this by using a brush or compressed air. Once the heater core is clear, you should notice an improvement in the performance of your car’s heat system.

If you’ve tried all of the above tips and your car’s heat system is still not working, there could be a more serious problem with the car’s heat system that requires professional attention.

More Help from Scott’s Auto

Hopefully, our guide has helped you troubleshoot and fix your car’s AC/heat system. If you’re still having problems, don’t hesitate to take your car to a Scott’s Auto location for help. We’re able to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action. We can also perform any repairs that might be necessary. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or just stop on by!