Car AC Problems and Fixes | Jordan Car Inspection

In this article, we explain car AC problems in detail, with practical tips from the experts at Jordan Car Inspection Center in Sharjah.

The car air conditioner is one of the essential parts that provide comfort for the driver and passengers, especially in hot climates such as the UAE. However, car air conditioners can develop faults that affect their performance. In this article, we review the most common car AC problems and their causes, along with tips for dealing with them.

The Most Common Car AC Problems and Their Causes

1. No Air Coming Out of the Car AC

Causes:
A clogged air filter caused by built-up dirt.
A leak or hole in the cooling pipes.
Solution: Clean or replace the filter, and repair the damaged pipes.

2. Car AC Not Cooling

Causes:
The refrigerant (Freon) has run out.
Poor-quality gas was used.
A compressor fault.
A clogged air filter.
A damaged AC fan.
Solution: Recharge the refrigerant, replace the poor-quality gas, check the compressor, clean the filter, or replace the fan.

3. Constantly Weak Cooling

Causes:
Low AC gas pressure.
A damaged expansion valve (the AC sprayer).
A loose AC pulley.
A failed radiator fan or interior AC fan.
Solution: Check the gas pressure, replace the expansion valve, tighten the pulley, or repair the fan.

4. Cooling That Rises and Falls Intermittently

Causes:
Blown fuses.
A fault in the car’s electrical system.
A faulty thermostat.
Radiator overheating caused by deposits.
Solution: Replace the fuses, check the electrical system, replace the thermostat, or clean the radiator.

5. The AC Does Not Cut Off at the Required Coolness

Causes:
A low amount of refrigerant.
A weak compressor.
A damaged thermostat.
Solution: Recharge the gas, check the compressor, or replace the thermostat.

6. Cold Air at First, Then It Stops

Causes:
Parts of the cooling system freezing after running for long periods.
A saturated liquid tank.
The system needs cleaning, or the excess liquid needs draining.
Solution: Switch the AC off for a while, drain the tank, or clean the system.

7. Bad Smell from the Car AC

Causes:
Dirt building up on the evaporator.
A clogged or damaged AC filter.
Water collecting under the floor carpets.
Smoking inside the car.
Solution: Clean the evaporator, replace the filter, dry the floors, and avoid smoking.

8. Strange Noises When the AC Is On

Causes:
A damaged or loose AC belt.
A compressor fault.
A damaged compressor bearing.
Solution: Tighten or replace the belt, check the compressor, or replace the bearing.

9. No Airflow When You Change the Vent

Causes:
Damaged air doors inside the control panel.
A fault in the air distribution system.
Solution: Repair or replace the air doors, and check the distribution system.

Tips for Diagnosing Car AC Problems

Consult a specialist: Before you carry out any repairs, it is best to consult a specialist technician so the problem does not get worse.
Regular maintenance:

Clean the air filter regularly.
Check the refrigerant level and use a good-quality gas.

Check the pipes and fans: Make sure they are in good condition.
Avoid smoking: Especially when the AC is running.
Handle with care: When you check sensitive parts such as the thermostat and the fuses.

To learn about vehicle registration and renewal requirements in the UAE, visit the official website of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).