Your car’s air conditioning system is a big part of what makes driving relaxing and enjoyable. Even if one can ride without it, it is easy to imagine how uncomfortable and sweaty it must be inside the vehicle. These days, air conditioning is a necessity and is present as a standard feature in all cars.
We have all heard of a faulty HVAC system at home causing mishaps. However, a faulty HVAC system in cars can also cause car accidents. Here’s how.
How Faulty AC Can Cause Car Accidents
A faulty car AC emits a certain kind of odor that can at times cause discomfort and feelings of nausea to the driver which can cause unwanted mishaps on the roads. Moreover, loud noise emitting from a faulty car AC can lead to the driver not being able to hear outside sounds like that of the horns from other cars, which can cause road accidents. A faulty car AC also tends to dispose of water inside the cabin which can be a potential cause of shock hazard, thereby leading to accidents.
If another driver crashes into your car and it’s found that it was because of their vehicle’s faulty AC system, contact a car accident lawyer to seek compensation.
On the note of preventive measures, it is good to be able to identify signs of a faulty car AC in order to nib the problem in the bud, when it occurs. Let’s look at the top signs that show that your car’s AC system is failing-
Improper airflow
The most obvious symptom showing that your AC requires repairs is when you turn it on and notice poor airflow from the fans and no or little cooling. Based on what is triggering this condition, either little maintenance or a large repair may be required. It is best to seek professional help in this case.
No cool air comes out of the AC
The air won’t be cold enough, which is the most obvious symptom of a failed car air conditioner. Now, the majority of you will say that all this issue needs is a basic top-up of AC gas, however, that is not always the case. Your AC compressor may be at fault if you frequently have your car’s air conditioning repaired but it still isn’t blowing out chilly air like it used to. The AC won’t blow cold air if the compressor is unable to control the refrigerant flow adequately.
Loud Noise coming from the AC
Another possible sign of a failing AC is loud noises made when the air conditioner is turned on. All kinds of noises may result if internal components malfunction or internal parts in the compressor malfunction or freeze.
The cabin odor is unpleasant
This is undoubtedly one of the most disgusting effects of a failing AC. When you go inside your car and notice a musty, strong, or moldy stench, it can be a sign of an air conditioner issue.
The cabin air filter or your car’s HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) system may be clogged or worn out. This needs to be cleaned or it needs to be replaced. Your air conditioning system will last longer if you regularly change the air cabin filters, and you’ll use less fuel as a result.
Problem with the working of the compressor clutch
The compressor clutch is another indicator of a failed car air conditioner. The compressor is the most expensive part of your car’s air conditioning equipment. When necessary, its clutch enables the pulley to be engaged and disengaged to obtain power from the engine. A damaged compressor clutch has the potential to irreversibly activate or deactivate the compressor. This is another indication that your car’s air conditioner is malfunctioning because it’s not a good idea to just replace the compressor clutch as replacing the entire compressor can be extremely expensive!
Presence of water in the cabin
You probably noticed a water puddle below your car when you parked it after a drive with the air conditioning on. That is typically indicative of a fully functional AC system.
But the danger starts when you notice water inside the cabin.
Condensed water from the evaporator must be drained, but because the drain pipe is jammed, it leaks into the cabin instead. It is advisable to move the car as quickly as possible to a garage since water inside can cause harm to the electrical system of the car and potentially present a shock hazard.
The AC’s temperature changes frequently.
When you switch on the air conditioner, everything is okay for a short while before warm air begins to pour through the vents. It might be brought on by an obstruction in the expansion valve that prevents the refrigerant from getting to the evaporator. You should get it repaired as soon as you notice the problem occurring.
Conclusion-
People are usually aware of common air conditioner problems occurring in homes, but one should also be aware of the signs that indicate that your car’s AC is failing. Make sure you pay attention to such details and do not ignore them. These can sometimes lead to fatal accidents as well.