Air Conditioning Repair For Cars and Trucks

Restoring Comfort with The Plains Tire & Auto in The Plains

If your car's air conditioning system isn't keeping you cool in the scorching weather, there's no need to endure discomfort. Come over to The Plains Tire & Auto in The Plains, where we'll swiftly restore your AC's performance. Reach out to us now at 540-253-5251 or drop by our shop at 4229 Bragg St, The Plains, VA.

Five Indicators Your Car's AC Needs Attention

1. Your car's AC blows air only slightly cooler than the outside temperature.
2. Unpleasant mildew and mold odors emanate from your AC vents.
3. The AC functions only while the vehicle is in motion.
4. Even at the highest fan setting, there's weak airflow.
5. Water condenses or drips onto your foot while driving.

Don't delay! If your car's AC isn't operating at peak efficiency, a visit to The Plains Tire & Auto is a wise move. Routine maintenance now can help you avoid more costly auto AC repairs later. Sometimes, resolving a malfunctioning air conditioner is as simple and cost-effective as replenishing the coolant.

Ensuring Optimal Performance for Your Vehicle's Cooling System

Most car and truck air conditioning systems eventually require attention due to wear and tear. Hoses supplying the AC unit can crack, clog, or develop leaks if neglected. Let us service your car or truck to keep your cooling system operating at its best. Dial 540-253-5251 to learn more about how we can restore your air conditioning.

Common Automotive AC Repair Services

Recharging Your Car's AC
If your vehicle's AC begins to lose its cooling efficiency, consider a freon recharge. This quick and cost-effective solution restores cool air, providing relief from the heat. Be aware that if there's a freon leak, it could be due to a damaged hose or seal, which might require more extensive repairs.

Repair Your Car's AC Compressor
The AC compressor is central to cooling your vehicle, performing several critical functions: it pressurizes the refrigerant to cool the air, regulates the temperature output, detects temperature changes, and channels air to the AC condenser.

Repair Your Car's AC Condenser
Located at the front of your vehicle, near the radiator, the AC condenser is crucial for cooling the refrigerant after compression. This component helps maintain a comfortable cabin temperature by converting the refrigerant into a cooled liquid that moves to the receiver/dryer or accumulator.

Repair Your Car's AC Evaporator
Situated just behind the dashboard, the evaporator is key to your car's air conditioning system. It cools and dehumidifies the air before it flows through the cabin, ensuring a comfortable environment inside your vehicle during the warmer months.

Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
The Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube is essential for regulating your AC system's pressure and temperature, controlling the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. Proper balance prevents moisture build-up, crucial for maintaining your vehicle's AC efficiency.

Freon Recharging FAQs

How often should Freon be changed?

Never, at least not in the way you think of your oil being changed. Your car's AC system is a sealed unit. No new Freon needs to be added unless there's a refrigerant leak. Over time as your vehicle ages small cracks may form in your AC system parts such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-dryer, expansion tube and connecting hoses allowing Freon to escape. If this occurs, you need to replace the failing part and have your Freon recharged.

How long should a Freon recharge last?

If your car's AC system was recently repaired and required a Freon recharge it should not need to be replaced again. Your AC system is a closed or sealed system that does not allow Freon to escape. Freon is not like gasoline; it does not get depleted. If Freon is escaping after your car's AC system has been repaired, then additional work may need to be done to find the leak.

How many cans of Freon does a car take?

Don't guesstimate your car's refrigerant needs! Most use 28-32 ounces (2-3 12oz cans), but larger vehicles and rear A/C can be different. Check your manual for the exact amount to avoid overfilling.

Can I leave my car running when adding Freon?

It is advised to have your engine running while recharging your car's A/C system. This is essential as the A/C compressor, powered by the engine, must be active to facilitate proper refrigerant circulation and ensure an effective recharge.

Why is my car blowing hot air after adding Freon?

A refrigerant leak can lead to a loss of pressure in the AC system, resulting in a failure to produce cold air. This is frequently the primary reason a recharge may prove ineffective. It is crucial to inspect the system for leaks and address any issues before proceeding with a recharge.

Schedule your auto AC repair appointment with The Plains Tire & Auto today! Our expert technicians are equipped to swiftly diagnose and resolve all your air conditioning issues.