Why My AC Not Cooling Car? Possible Reasons And DIY Solutions

Are you facing this problem that ac not cooling car? If yes, then don’t worry because you are not the only person who is facing this issue. But anyways we will tell you the reasons and solutions to this problem.

Suppose you were ever going on a trip or long drive on a hot summer day. In that case, you probably know how important it is to have a functional car AC system because the car ac system is designed to cool down the air inside the car and create it smooth and comfortable for the passengers.

Although, sometimes maybe you notice that your ac not cooling car properly. This will be a sign of a problem with the ac system that must be fixed as soon as possible. There are multiple reasons for this problem, ac not cooling car, which we discuss in this article.

If you avoid these problems, you might end up destroying the ac system, which costs you worth if you repair or replace it. That’s why we highly recommend you check your ac system daily and service it by yourself or from any professional if you identify any signs of malfunction.

This article will discuss possible reasons and DIY solutions for ac not cooling car. After reading this article, we assure you that your problem will be resolved, and you can enjoy the ride cool and comfortably.

8 Possible Reasons for AC not Cooling Car:

Before understanding the solutions to this problem, we need to learn the reasons and causes of it. So, let’s get started.

1. Insufficient refrigerant levels

It is one of the most common reasons for the ac not cooling car. The refrigerant is the substance that circulates in the ac system and absorbs the heat from inside the car. If your refrigerant level is too low, then the ac system will not cool the air effectively and might blow warm instead of it.

This will make your car uncomfortable and decrease fuel efficiency. The low refrigerant level can occur because of a leak in the ac system, lack of maintenance, and improper installation. If you want to fix this problem, you need to locate and seal the leaks and recharge the refrigerant to the exact level daily to the correct level.

You need to check the refrigerant level regularly and get the ac system serviced through a professional if it is required. By doing all this process, you can stop your ac not cooling car problem and then enjoy a cool and comfortable ride.

2. Clogged or dirty AC condenser

It is the 2nd reason of ac not cooling car problem. The ac condenser is part of the ac system, which releases the heat from the refrigerant to the outside. If the condenser is blocked by debris, bugs, leaves, and dirt, it will not dissipate the heat properly and may overheat.

This can decrease the cooling performance of the ac system and might damage the compressor or other components. If you want to fix this problem, then you need to clean the condenser on a daily basis and then remove the obstructions which block the airflow.

You can also inspect or analyze the condenser for any leaks and cracks, and if it is needed, then replace it. By doing all this process, you can easily improve and resolve your ac not cooling car issue and increase the lifespan of the ac system.

3. Faulty compressor or compressor clutch:

This is the 3rd reason for ac not cooling car problem. The compressor is the heart of the ac system, which pumps the refrigerant through the system and then compresses it to increase the temperature and pressure of it.

The compressor clutch is the part that engages and disengages the compressor based on the demand. But if the compressor or compressor clutch is faulty, then the ac system will not circulate the refrigerant exactly and might be lost the cooling ability.

This will create loud noises, vibrations, and smoke from the ac system. In order to fix this problem, you need to diagnose the reason for the fault and then change the compressor or compressor clutch if it is needed.

You can also check the electrical wiring and the refrigerant level to make sure both are in good condition. By doing this process, you can resolve your ac not cooling car problem and restore your ac system function.

4. Malfunctioning AC controls or sensors

The Malfunctioning AC controls or sensors is one of the big reason for ac not cooling car problem. The ac controls and sensors are the part that regulates the overall operation of the ac system and adjusts the temperature, and based on the user preference, they airflow it.

If the ac controls or sensors are multifunctioning, they send the wrong signals to the ac system, which causes it to work wrong. For example, the thermostat may fail to sense the temperature correctly and stop the compressor from turning off and on.

The pressure switch might fail to detect the pressure of the refrigerant and cause the compressor to run non-stop or not at all. The blend door of the actuator might fail to direct the air to the correct vents and then cause it to mix with the hot air from the heater.

In order to fix this problem, you need to analyze the fuses and relays that power the ac system and ensure that they are working properly.

5. Electricity issues:

It is another reason for ac not cooling car problem. The AC system depends on electricity to power the compressor, the fan, the controls, and the sensors. If there is a problem with the electrical system, like a blown a fuse, a loose wire, a bad relay, or a short circuit, then the AC system might not get enough power or receive too much power and cause it to malfunction.

In this result, poor cooling performance, erratic operation, or complete failure of the AC system will occur. In order to fix this problem, you should inspect the electrical system and check the source of the issue.

You must also use a multimeter to test the voltage and resistance of the electrical components and change them if they are destroyed. By doing this process, you can easily resolve your ac not cooling car issue and make sure your AC system’s safe.

6. Leaking hoses

Another reason for ac not cooling car is leaking hoses. The hoses are the parts that connect the various components of the AC system and carry the refrigerant from one place to another place. If the hoses leak, they may lose the refrigerant and cause the AC system to lose its cooling capacity.

Leaking hoses can also allow moisture and dirt to enter the AC system and destroy the compressor or other parts of the ac system. Leaking hoses can occur because of wear and tear, corrosion, punctures, or improper installation.

To fix this problem, you must find and seal the leaks and refill the refrigerant to the right level. You should also change the hoses if they are cracked or destroyed. By doing this process, you can stop your ac not cooling car problems and maintain your AC system smoothly.

7. Damaged evaporator:

The damaged evaporator is another reason for ac not cooling car. The evaporator is part of the AC system, which cools down the air inside the vehicle by absorbing the heat from it. If the evaporator is destroyed or damaged, it might not be able to cool down the air effectively and blow warm air instead.

A damaged evaporator can also create refrigerant leaks and decrease the pressure in the AC system. A damaged evaporator can occur because of corrosion, clogging, freezing, or physical damage. To fix this problem, you must identify the evaporator and change it if it is destroyed.

In addition, you need to clean the evaporator daily and stop any debris or moisture from accumulating on it. After doing all this process, you can resolve your ac not cooling car issue and increase the performance of your AC system.

8. Blocked vents:

The last reason for ac not cooling car is blocked vents. The vents are the parts that direct the air from the AC system to the inside of the car. If the vents are clogged by dust, dirt, debris, or other objects, they might restrict the airflow and stop the cool air from reaching the passengers.

Blocked vents can also make the AC system work harder and absorb more energy. To fix this problem, you must clean the vents daily and eliminate any obstructions blocking them.

In addition, you need to adjust the vents to the proper direction and ensure they are open. After this process, you can resolve your ac not cooling car issue and enjoy a cool and comfortable ride.

How to fix car AC not blowing cold air?

In this section, we will understand when your car ac is not blowing cold air then how you fix this problem. So, we are discussing four steps in front of you through which you can resolve this issue. 

Check for refrigerant leaks and recharge the system:

Refrigerant is the material thatcools the air in the AC system. If there are leaks in the hoses, seals, or valves, refrigerant might escape and decrease the cooling capacity. In order to fix this problem, you need to identify refrigerant leaks by using a leak detector or a dye test. Then you need to recharge the system with the right amount and type of refrigerant by using a gauge and a hose.

Clean or replace the AC condenser

The AC condenser is a part that cools the refrigerant gas and transfers it into liquid. If it is dirty or destroyed, then it can cause ac not cooling car problems. If you want to clean or change it, then you need to remove the front bumper, spray the coil cleaner, and rinse it off.

Inspect and repair/replace the compressor or compressor clutch

The compressor or compressor clutch is a part that pumps and manages the refrigerant flow in the AC system. If it is faulty, it can create ac not cooling car issues. To inspect and repair the compressor or clutch, you must check for physical damage, oil leaks, and electrical problems.

Verify the functionality of AC controls and sensors

The AC controls and sensors are parts that monitor and regulate the temperature and pressure of the AC system. If they are faulty, they can create ac not cooling car problems. To verify their functionality, you need to check for unusual noises, airflow issues, and electrical signals.

Car AC problems and solutions

In this section, we learn some possible problem of car ac not cooling and their DIY solutions.

1. Car AC stopped blowing cold air suddenly:

A refrigerant leak is one of the typical problems that can cause car ac stopped blowing cold air suddenly. Refrigerant is the object that cools the air in the AC system. If it leaks out, the AC will not work properly.

The solution to this problem is that you need to find and seal the leak. After that, refill the refrigerant to the exact level. The other possible problem is the blocked or damaged condenser. The condenser is the part that cools the hot refrigerant and converts it into liquid.

If the condenser is broken or blocked, then it can stop the ac from cooling the air. The solution to this problem is that you can clean the condenser or replace it. These are some of the reasons why ac not cooling car can happen.

2. Car AC not cooling after gas refill:

The possible reason which causes the car ac not cooling after a gas refill is the wrong amount of refrigerant in the system. If there is too less and too much refrigerant, then it will definitely affect the temperature and pressure of the ac system.

The solution to this problem is to use the gauge to measure the pressure and set it to the refrigerant level accordingly. The other possible reason is the faulty radiator and cooling fan because these will help dissipate the heat from the condenser and keep the ac system cool.

If they are not working exactly, then this will create the ac to overheat and stop cooling. The solution to this problem is that you have to check the fan and radiator for blockage, damage, and electrical issue.

3. Car AC sometimes cooling sometimes not.

This is one of the typical reasons which cause because of the faulty thermostat. The thermostat is the part that regulates the temperature of the ac system. If it is malfunctioning, then it can create the ac to cycle on and off randomly. The solution to this problem is that you need to change the thermostat.

The reason for this problem is a clogged cabin air filter or fan housing. The cabin air filter and the fan housing are both the parts that filter and circulate the air in the ac system. If these both are blocked or dirty, they decrease the airflow and the cooling performance of the ac.

The solution to this problem is to clean or change the cabin air filter and fan housing.

4. Car AC slow to cool:

The reason for this problem is the low level of refrigerant in the system. The refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in the ac system. If the refrigerant is low, then it decreases the cooling efficiency and performance of the ac.

The solution to this problem is to recharge the refrigerant to the right level using the gauge and a refill kit. The other reason for this problem is a blocked and dirty condenser or evaporator.

These are both the part that exchanges heat and cool the refrigerant and air in the ac system. If they both are blocked and dirty, they might restrict the cooling capacity and airflow of the ac. The solution to this problem is to replace and clean the condenser and evaporator.

How to recharge car AC?

This is a common problem that most people face regarding how to recharge car ac. We will tell you the steps for recharging your ac, and you will understand how to do it.

Steps to properly recharge the car AC system

1. First of all, check the ambient air temperature and the refrigerant pressure chart to analyze the right pressure for the system.
2. Find the low-pressure service port on the ac line and remove the cap. This port has commonly closed the firewall and has a back cap that is labeled as “AC” or “Low pressure.”
3. After that, attach the ac pressure gauge hose to the low-pressure port and then read the pressure. If the pressure is low according to the recommended level, then you need to add refrigerant.
4. In 4th step, you need to start the engine and turn on the ac at a high level. Shake the refrigerant properly and connect it to the gauge hose. Now, press the trigger to dispense refrigerant into the system in short bursts. Then check the pressure after every burst.
5. In the last step, you need to stop adding refrigerant when the pressure reaches the recommended level. Keep in mind that you don’t need to overcharge the system because it will create damage. Now, disconnect the gauge hose and change the cap on the low-pressure port. In last, test your ac for cooling performance, and we assure you that your ac not cooling car problem will resolve.

Tips for maintaining optimal car AC performance

Here are the 7 Tips for maintaining excellent car AC performance.

Tip 1:

You need to run your ac weekly on defrost mode for at least 10 minutes. The purpose of this is that it will stop mold and bacteria growth in the ac system and keep the compressor lubricated. If you want to know how to clean mold out of a window ac unit, then you can get it from here.

Tip 2:

You can clean or change the air filter regularly because a blocked and dirty air filter can decrease the airflow and cooling efficiency of the ac system. To do this, you can get help from the owner manual.

Tip 3:

Keep in mind that you don’t need to pre-cool your vehicle. You need to roll down the windows below and let the hot air escape first rather than turning on the ac before getting in the car. This will be helpful to keep the ac cooling down the cabin quickly and save fuel.

Tip 4:

You need to set the ac to the coldest setting and set the fan speed according to the requirement. This process will allow the ac to work at its excellent level and ignore unnecessary strain on the compressor.

Tip 5:

We recommend you keep your car clean every time because the dust, dirt, and debris will accumulate on the condenser and the radiator. These will be responsible for cooling down the refrigerant and engine and also ac not cooling car. In addition, they will decrease overheating cause and efficiency problems. You need to clean them daily by using a soft brush.

Tip 6:

Kindly don’t use the ac on recirculate mode if you have passengers in your car. Because recirculate mode will recycle the air inside the cabin, and that makes it cooler faster. Although, this will decrease the oxygen level and enhance the humidity in the cabin.

This will make it uncomfortable for the passengers that are sitting back in your car. You can use a fresh air model rather than bring the outside in and improve the ventilation.

Tip 7:

You need to get professional ac service from the shop at least once a time in a year. Because a professional technician can identify the leaks and measure the refrigerant pressure level, the professional will inspect and clean the components and then recharge the system if required. This process will make sure that your system is working efficiently and properly.

Conclusion:

There are several potential reasons for an AC not cooling car, including insufficient refrigerant levels, a clogged or dirty AC condenser, a faulty compressor or compressor clutch, malfunctioning AC controls or sensors, electrical issues, leaking hoses, a damaged evaporator, blocked vents. It’s important to diagnose the specific issue and take appropriate steps to address it, which may include checking refrigerant levels, cleaning or replacing components, inspecting electrical connections, and ensuring proper airflow.

When faced with a car AC that is not blowing cold air, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. Start by checking for refrigerant leaks and recharging the system if necessary. Clean or replace the AC condenser to ensure proper cooling. Inspect and repair/replace the compressor or compressor clutch if they are faulty.

Finally, verify the functionality of AC controls and sensors, making sure they are not causing any issues. It’s important to address these problems promptly to restore the cooling performance of your car’s AC system.

Frequently Asked Questions: AC not cooling car.

Why is my AC running but not the cold car?

The most typical problem of broken air conditioning is leaks and compressor issues. If you identify that your car ac stopped blowing cold air suddenly, the problem will probably be a clogged filter. 

How to deal with car ac refrigerant?

If you want to deal with your car ac refrigerant, you need to check for leaks using a dye test and leak detector. After that, recharge the ac system with the perfect amount and type of refrigerant by using a gauge and hose.

Should I turn off the AC if it’s not cooling?

When you identify that your ac is not cooling properly, then you need to suspect the refrigerant leak. In addition, if you checked the air thermostat and air filter also but didn’t find anything. Then we recommend you read this article carefully or call a professional.