Why Is My Car AC Blowing Hot And Cold Air?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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If your A/C flip-flops from hot to cold and back again, your expansion valve could be failing. ... Your A/C blows warm air. A large restriction of refrigerant will also result in your A/C blowing warm air. Contrary to what you might think, too much refrigerant flowing into the evaporator doesn't lead to cooler air.

Why is my AC blowing hot air in my car?

Refrigerant Leak

A car A/C blowing hot air is often the result of a refrigerant leak . Refrigerant is a liquid that circulates through your car's A/C system, expanding and contracting as it removes heat and humidity from the cabin. ... A leak can happen because of an old hose as well as a rusted or punctured evaporator.

How much does it cost to fix AC in car?

But on average, you can expect to pay these prices for auto AC system repairs: Anywhere from $170 to $730 for minor AC repairs and anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 for major AC compressor repairs. Somewhere between $100 and $140 for a car AC recharge. About $500 for auto AC hose repair and replacement.

How much does it cost to replace an air compressor?

AC Compressor Replacement Cost

According to data by HomeGuide, the average cost to replace a home air conditioner compressor is about $600 to $1,200 under warranty , or $1,300 to $2,500 when it's not under warranty. Many HVAC contractors charge $100 to $150 per hour plus the cost of parts to repair a home AC compressor.

How much does it cost to replace an AC expansion valve?

Air Conditioning Expansion Valve Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $157 and $198 while parts are priced between $72 and $112. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can AutoZone check my AC?

If you want to find the right AC solution for your car, you can either shop online or go to your local AutoZone . You can get your car's parts tested for free at AutoZone.

How do I know if my car AC needs recharging?

  1. Your A/C is Blowing Warm Air. One of the most obvious symptoms of low Freon levels is if your air conditioner is blowing warm or room temperature air. ...
  2. Listen For The A/C Clutch to Engage. ...
  3. Visible Refrigerant Leaks. ...
  4. Your A/C is Blowing Warm Air. ...
  5. Listen For The A/C Clutch to Engage. ...
  6. Visible Refrigerant Leaks.

How do I know if my car AC compressor is bad?

  1. A Lack of Hot Air Being Released Outside. ...
  2. Loud or Strange Noises From the Unit. ...
  3. Failure of the Compressor to Turn On. ...
  4. Circuit Breaker Tripping. ...
  5. Leaks Around the Air Conditioning Unit. ...
  6. Warm Air Instead of Cool Air Being Delivered to the House. ...
  7. Reduced Airflow.

How can I make my car AC colder again?

  1. Replace the cabin air filter. ...
  2. Park in the shade whenever possible. ...
  3. Supercharge your A/C system. ...
  4. Don't switch to max A/C right away. ...
  5. Avoid giving your car A/C mixed signals.

Is it worth it to replace AC compressor?

A compressor is expensive to replace, and if the air conditioning system is more than 12 years old, it's probably not worth it. However, if the compressor is still covered by the warranty, then replacing the compressor is the best choice .

Can you drive with a bad air compressor?

It is most likely OK to operate your vehicle even thought the a/c compressor has failed. ... As long as the compressor pulley is rotating smoothly, without wobble or noise, it shouldn't affect belt tension or operation of the other belt-driven accessories.

Is it worth replacing compressor on AC unit in car?

But generally speaking, most mechanics will usually recommend that car owners replace their AC compressors entirely as opposed to trying to repair them . They suggest that they do this because, oftentimes, bad AC compressors have bad seals in them that cannot be fixed no matter how hard a mechanic tries.

What are the signs of a bad expansion valve?

  • #1 – Poor Air Conditioning Performance.
  • #2 – Inconsistent Airflow From Vents.
  • #3 – Air Conditioning Constantly Running.
  • #4 – Frost Forming on A/C Compressor or Vents.

How do I know if my AC expansion valve is bad?

  1. Car AC system isn't cooling enough or won't cool at all. ...
  2. High side pressure is high. ...
  3. Air coming from vents is frosty. ...
  4. AC blows cold, then hot. ...
  5. AC kicks on and then immediately kicks off. ...
  6. Airflow drops dramatically from vents.

How do you check a AC expansion valve?

  1. Make sure the AC unit is plugged in or, if it is in an automobile, turn the vehicle on. ...
  2. Use the manual to locate the thermostatic expansion valve. ...
  3. Lift the sensing bulb from the suction bulb well. ...
  4. Hold the sensing bulb in your hands for two minutes or place it in warm water.
David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.