Car Air Conditioning - Servicing & Repairs

Air conditioning, once a luxury in European model cars, is now soon becoming a standard fitment. Along with it come all the problems and extra servicing requirements. Faulty Air Conditioning isn't as mysterious as many think.

Vehicle Air Conditioning Failure/Faults

The most common problem with vehicle air conditioning systems is lack of refrigerant, the gas that is used in A/C systems. The gas mainly used today is R134a (otherwise known as tetrafluorethane, but we'll just stick to R134a!).

Gas will escape slowly over several years in most cases and will need topping up regardless but good maintenance will ensure the gas doesn't escape sooner than it should.

Most people don't do it but it is recommended that the A/C is used at least once a week regardless of the weather. This is to ensure the system remains lubricated, as it also contains an oil. The lubricant also works on the rubber seals (by keeping them 'wet'). If these seals deteriorate then there is more chance of gas escaping. Weekly use also ensures the compressor is kept in top condition, about 10 minutes is recommended. This will help keep your car A/C system in top condition and help prevent premature failure.

Another reason for gas escaping is corrosion in the pipes causing pin holes. I've covered this in the Peugeot 306 model which is a common problem along the two front pipes carrying the refrigerant and subsequently causes the 306's air conditioning system to fail - see here.

Road salt and other contaminants can eat away at the car air conditioning metal pipes over time. This is normally worst around the lower areas of pipe which are closer to the road and particularly at the points they're held by brackets/clips, where road dirt tends to build up.

How the Vehicle Air Conditioning system works? - see here

Topping up your Vehicle's Air Conditioning system - see next page