How Often Should Your Car AC Be Serviced?

Even though it may still feel like winter, the calendar says that spring has arrived.  This means it’s time to schedule an inspection of your car’s air conditioner.  You want to make sure that any needed auto AC repair has been taken care of so your vehicle is ready for summer’s hot days.  Don’t delay until you find yourself sweltering in a hot car.  All you may want is fresh coolant added to the radiator to keep you cool.  

You may be wondering just how often should your car AC be serviced?  Many certified auto AC repair technicians recommend having the air conditioner checked at least twice a year—in the fall after working hard in summer’s hot temperatures, and then again in the spring after surviving winter’s freezing temperatures. This will ensure that your vehicle maintains the best fuel efficiency while providing you with a relaxed ride.  At the minimum, service once a year can still be beneficial. 

There are several conditions that can cause issues with your car’s air conditioner:

• The engine’s hot temperatures
• Dirt and debris on the road 
• Vehicle’s continuous vibrations
• Quick and hard stops
• Running over an obstacle in the road or hitting a curb
• The condenser becomes blocked or broken
• The cooling fan breaks
• Faulty electrical connections

Any of the issues listed above can cause loose connections, cracks in a hose, or even a minute crack in the AC unit, allowing the refrigerant to leak out.  This means the compressor will not reach the pressure it wants to push hot refrigerant through the system to cool it down.  

Have questions about how often should your car AC be serviced?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about auto AC repair and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.