EdupradaIf you notice that your car air conditioning is no longer producing cold, several factors may be responsible for this malfunction.
In this article, we will look at common causes and possible solutions to fix this annoying problem. From air conditioning recharging to condenser failures, we’ll guide you through the steps necessary to regain the comfort of air conditioning in your car.
Why is my car air conditioning no longer cold?
The air conditioning system , especially if it is automatic or regulated, is very complex, and it is even more so if your vehicle is recent. The origins of an air conditioning system which no longer produces any cold, or even no air at all, are therefore very diverse.
If your car air conditioning is no longer cold, this may be due to:
- A refrigerant gas level too low ;
- A leak from your refrigerant gas tank ;
- A faulty condenser ;
- A regulator that no longer works ;
- A pulley , pulley clutch or HS compressor ;
- Sensors that no longer work .
Good to know: be aware that a recharge must be carried out every 2 to 4 years depending on the model, or even less often for very reliable recent models.
Air conditioning is no longer cold: what to do?
When your air conditioning only blows hot air or no air at all, it is difficult to precisely detect the origin of the problem. But two manipulations are still possible. First turn on your air conditioning system to full power, and start your engine. You can now perform the following checks:
- Listen carefully to detect any abnormal noise . If this is the case, it probably comes from your compressor, which will need to be repaired or replaced.
- Smell if bad odors invade your cabin. If this is the case, there may be a leak to repair, you will need to change your cabin filter at the same time.
Most of the time, an air conditioning unit that is no longer cold needs to be recharged. Air conditioning should be recharged approximately every 3 years . If it does not last long enough, there may be a leak in the circuit.
If your air conditioning is no longer cold, go to the garage so that the mechanic can check the entire system. He will check the refrigerant gas level and the condition of the circuit. As a general rule, have your air conditioning system checked every 2 years.
How long does a car air conditioning charge last?
An air conditioning recharge lasts at least 3 years . But, since your air conditioning is not running all the time, this time may vary slightly depending on your usage.
We advise you to have your air conditioning checked every two years to prevent possible malfunctions. Generally, replacing the air conditioning filter is enough to restore your air conditioning system to good condition if your air conditioning is no longer cold.
Air conditioning is no longer cold: how much does it cost?
If your air conditioning is no longer cold, you need to go to the garage to examine your air conditioning system. In general, a recharge of the air conditioning will be enough to solve the problem. But if the breakdown comes from elsewhere, the bill could be higher.
Here is the price to pay depending on the cause of your air conditioning which is no longer cold:
- Recharging your air conditioning: between €60 and €90 ;
- A replacement of a defective condenser: count around €200 ;
- A replacement of the HS gas compressor : at least €500, labor included.