What Causes Car AC Not to Cool? Here’s How to Fix It Safely!

The cause of car AC not cooling often makes the trip feel uncomfortable, especially in the scorching heat. The car AC, which should keep the cabin temperature cool, instead blows out hot air or just ordinary wind. This condition is certainly very disturbing, especially if you often drive long distances with your family or for business purposes.

Therefore, it is important to know how to fix a car AC that is not cooling below. Let’s check out the explanation!

10 Causes of Car AC Not Cooling

The car AC system consists of many interconnected components. If one has a problem, the cooling performance will decrease.

Here are the most common causes of car AC not cooling:

1. Refrigerant Runs Out or Decreases

Refrigerant is the main cooling agent in the car AC system. If the refrigerant runs out or decreases, then the air coming out of the vents will no longer be cold.

Refrigerant deficiency is usually caused by leaks in pipe joints, hoses, or evaporator components.

Without enough refrigerant, the AC will not be able to produce cool air even if other components are functioning properly.

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2. Dirty Condenser

The condenser plays a role in releasing heat from the refrigerant before moving on to the next stage. If the condenser is dirty from dust, mud, or road grime, the heat dissipation process will be hampered.

As a result, the refrigerant temperature remains high and the air produced is not cold. Cars that are often used on dusty roads or rarely washed in the engine area are very prone to this problem.

3. Broken Condenser Fan

The condenser fan functions to help cool the refrigerant when it passes through the condenser. If the fan weakens, jams, or does not spin at all, then the heat pressure in the AC system will increase.

This condition causes the refrigerant not to cool enough when entering the evaporator, so the air blowing into the cabin feels hot or only slightly cool.

4. Compressor Problem

The compressor is often referred to as the heart of the car AC because it pumps refrigerant throughout the system.

If the compressor wears out, jams, or loses pressure, then refrigerant circulation will be disrupted.

This symptom is usually marked by a noisy sound from the engine compartment or the AC not cooling even though it is set at the lowest temperature.

5. Dirty or Clogged Evaporator

The evaporator works to absorb heat from the cabin air before being cooled again. If the evaporator is dirty or clogged with dust and dirt, then the heat absorption process will not run optimally.

In addition to the AC not cooling, this problem often causes musty or unpleasant odors coming from the AC vents.

6. Clogged Cabin Filter

The cabin filter functions to filter dust, pollen, and small particles so that the air entering the cabin remains clean.

However, if the filter is too dirty and clogged, then the airflow will decrease drastically.

As a result, the cold air produced does not reach the cabin optimally, making you feel the AC is no longer working properly.

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7. Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is a temperature sensor that regulates the performance of the AC cooling system. If the thermostat is damaged, then the AC temperature will not be controlled properly.

The AC may suddenly stop cooling or only blow ordinary air. This condition disrupts driving comfort, especially during the day.

8. Extra Fan Not Working

The extra fan is an additional fan that works to help keep the engine and condenser cool.

If the extra fan is damaged or not functioning, then the condenser temperature rises drastically. This causes the refrigerant not to change to a cold state optimally, so the AC feels not cool even though it has been turned on at maximum settings.

9. Electrical System Problem

The car AC system relies on electrical components such as relays, fuses, and sensors. If there is interference with the electrical system, for example, a blown fuse or a damaged relay, then the electric current to the AC components will be hampered.

As a result, several AC parts cannot work optimally, including the compressor or fan.

10. AC System Leakage

Leaks in the AC system, whether in pipes, seals, or joints, can cause AC pressure to drop. When the pressure is unstable, the refrigerant will not work optimally in cooling the air.

This leakage is usually indicated by the appearance of oil stains around AC components or a hissing sound when the AC is turned on.

How to Fix Car AC Not Cooling?

After knowing the causes, the next step is to find the right solution. With proper care and handling, the car AC can be cold again and comfortable to use.

Here are some ways to fix car AC not cooling:

1. Check and Refill Refrigerant

If the AC is not cooling because the refrigerant runs out, you can fix it by refilling. However, before adding refrigerant, make sure there is no leak in the system. Refilling refrigerant without repairing the leak will only bring the problem back in a short time.

2. Clean Condenser and Evaporator

Cleaning the condenser and evaporator regularly will help maintain smooth airflow. The dirt that sticks can be handled by washing or spraying at a car AC workshop. That way, the cooling system will work optimally again.

3. Replace Cabin Filter Regularly

The cabin filter should be replaced every 10,000–15,000 km or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A new filter will make airflow smoother and the air in the cabin feel fresher. Besides keeping the AC cool, replacing the filter is also beneficial for passengers’ respiratory health.

4. Check and Service the Compressor

If the problem lies in the compressor, the best step is to have it checked at the workshop. Sometimes, the compressor only needs maintenance such as replacing special oil. However, if its condition is already severe, compressor replacement may be necessary for the AC to function normally again.

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5. Do Regular Service at an Authorized Workshop

The safest and most effective way to fix car AC not cooling is to do regular service. Authorized workshops or experienced AC workshops can detect problems early. With regular service, major repair costs can be avoided and the AC will last longer in the long term.

The causes of car AC not cooling can vary, from empty refrigerant, dirty components, to electrical system damage. By understanding the causes, you can make the right repairs and prevent further damage. Regular service is the main key to keeping the AC functioning optimally.

If you plan to buy a new vehicle with light car installments, don’t forget to always maintain the AC condition so your trip will be more comfortable and enjoyable.

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Facing problems such as car AC not cooling can certainly disrupt comfort, especially if the vehicle is used for business operations. The best solution is to have a fleet of vehicles that are not only high-quality but also supported by safe and reliable financing.

TAF Fleet is here as the answer to support the smooth running of your business. With a wide selection of vehicle financing for various types of vehicles, you can adjust it according to your business needs.

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