In the summer a car’s AC is essential. This is especially true in the Cache Valley. The average high temperature in July will reach between 87-90 degrees Fahrenheit. That is much too warm for someone to be comfortable in their car without air conditioning.

Unfortunately, it seems like AC problems only happen or get worse just as you need them. Don’t let an AC leak get you down this year. Look for the following signs that your car’s AC has a leak. Then call Ethan’s Honest Automotive. Our technicians can help get your AC running again in no time.

Signs that your car’s AC has a leak

The following signs will tell you that your car’s AC likely has a leak. 

 1) Your AC doesn’t blow cold air.
The biggest sign that your car’s AC has a leak is a complete lack of cold air coming out of the vents. If you turn on the AC and the fan does not blow cold, you know you have an AC problem. Most likely the lack of air conditioning has occurred because a leak has removed all the freon from your vehicle.

You shouldn’t run the car’s AC with no coolant present. That is a great way to overheat the system. Instead, bring your vehicle to Ethan’s Honest Automotive for service and repair right away.

2) Your AC has low pressure or trouble staying cool.
Often the first sign of an AC leak isn’t a complete lack of coolant. Instead, the AC may have low air pressure or have trouble staying cool. Low air pressure in the AC will cause weak airflow from the car’s vents. Weak airflow can be caused by a variety of things. A professional mechanic can help determine the cause of your weak airflow.

If the AC starts cool but does not keep a consistent temperature, that is also a sign of a leak. Trouble staying cool indicates that there is not enough coolant left in the AC system.

3) You see fluid under your car or on your dashboard.
Often, but not always, a leak will leave visible evidence. You may see the leaking refrigerant puddle underneath your vehicle. Sometimes the leak will be under the dashboard, which will cause the leak to be visible inside your car. Anytime you notice fluid leaking from your car, you should have it checked out. You can assume it is from the AC system if you also notice some of the other signs on this list.

4) You smell burning.
A final sign that you have a leaky AC in your car is smelling something burning. This symptom usually only occurs when you have run the AC without coolant for a long time. Often the problem does not get this far. However, a burning or overheating smell scoming from your vents when the AC is on is a sure sign of trouble. This sign indicates that something in the AC system is overheating, which requires immediate attention.

If you live in the Cache Valley and are having AC trouble in your car, you need the help of the experts at Ethan’s Honest Automotive. Let us diagnose and fix all of your AC problems. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you stay cool in your car this summer.