Why is my AC blowing hot air Subaru?
Few things are as frustrating as turning on your car's air conditioning on a hot day, only to be met with a blast of warm air. If you're driving a Subaru and experiencing this issue, you're not alone. At Kevin's Autos, we've seen this problem countless times, and there are several common reasons why your AC might not be functioning as it should. Let's dive into the potential causes and what you can do about them.
Common Reasons Your Subaru's AC Is Blowing Hot Air
When your Subaru's air conditioning system isn't working properly, it can be due to a variety of issues. Here are the most common culprits:
- Refrigerant Leak: The AC system relies on refrigerant to cool the air. If there's a leak in the system, the refrigerant level can drop, causing the AC to blow warm air.
- Faulty Compressor: The compressor is the heart of your AC system, responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the system won't be able to cool the air effectively.
- Clogged or Dirty Condenser: The condenser's job is to release heat from the refrigerant. If it's clogged with debris or dirt, it can't do its job, leading to warm air output.
- Electrical Issues: Problems with the electrical components, such as a blown fuse or a faulty relay, can prevent the AC system from functioning.
- Broken Blend Door Actuator: The blend door actuator controls the mix of hot and cold air. If it's stuck or broken, it might only allow hot air to flow through the vents.
How to Diagnose the Problem
Before heading to the repair shop, you can perform a few basic checks to narrow down the issue:
- Inspect for visible leaks under the hood or near the AC components.
- Check if the AC compressor engages when you turn on the air conditioning.
- Listen for unusual noises when the AC is running, which could indicate a mechanical issue.
- Ensure the AC settings are correct and that the temperature dial isn't accidentally set to heat.
What to Do Next
If you're unable to pinpoint the issue or resolve it yourself, it's time to bring your Subaru to a trusted auto repair shop. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing AC systems for all makes and models, including Subarus. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle, identify the root cause of the problem, and provide a reliable solution to get your AC blowing cold air again.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To avoid future AC issues, consider these maintenance tips:
- Have your AC system inspected and serviced annually.
- Run the AC for a few minutes every week, even in winter, to keep the system lubricated.
- Replace the cabin air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow.
- Address any unusual smells or noises from the AC system promptly.
Don't let a malfunctioning AC ruin your driving experience. Contact Kevin's Autos today to schedule an appointment and enjoy cool, comfortable rides once again!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fix my AC that only blows hot air?
If your AC is blowing warm air, start by checking the thermostat settings to ensure it's set to ``cool'' mode. Next, inspect the air filter for clogs and replace if necessary. Check the outdoor unit for debris blocking airflow and clean it if needed. Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed.
Should I turn my AC off if it's blowing hot air?
One of the solutions to HVAC blowing hot air would be to turn off your unit, clean the condensation drain, and allow the coils to defrost before turning the system back on.
How expensive is it to fix AC in a car?
AC repair costs can vary widely, depending on the cause of the problem and the type of vehicle. On average, car AC repair costs run between about $430 and $520. However, if you need a new compressor, you can expect to spend $1,300 to $2,500 or more.
Why is my car AC charged but blowing hot air?
It could be a number of issues, such as refrigerant leaks, faulty compressor or compressor clutch, blocked air vents, faulty thermostat, broken cooling fans, a blown fuse, electrical problems, a broken condenser and blower motor issues.
Why is my AC blowing hot air when it's on cold?
Common Causes of an Air Conditioner Blowing Warm or Hot Air
These can be due to clogging issues, electrical problems, low refrigerant, evaporator coil malfunctions, or compressor problems. If you've ever had the ac system in your car stop functioning, it's often due to a refrigerant leak or dirty coil.
How to fix a hot air conditioner in a car?
DIY Diagnosis and Quick Fixes
- First, check the cabin air filter condition and replace it if it's dirty or clogged.
- Check that the heater fan is blowing.
- Clean off the radiator.
- Check all the wiring connections for the AC system that you can access.
- Check the refrigerant level and top it up.
Do subarus have AC problems?
It appears that there is a known problem with one A/C compressor part number used on some Subarus in model years 2014 - 2016. For a couple weeks I had been hearing a ``moaning'' whenever the compressor's clutch engaged (rather than just the usual ``Click--Whirr''.
How to tell if freon is low in AC car?
One of the most obvious signs that your vehicle needs a Freon recharge is that your vehicle will be blowing warm air, even after your vehicle has been running for some time. If your refrigerant gets too low, there will simply not be enough “coolant” to cool the air as it is passed through your evaporator coil.
Why is my AC not blowing cold air in my car?
Your vehicle's air-conditioning not working is likely caused by a failing compressor or a freon leak. While these are the most obvious reasons for your air-conditioning not working inside your vehicle, it might be anything as simple as a bad belt or a dirty cabin air filter.
Should I turn off the AC if it is blowing warm air?
One of the solutions to HVAC blowing hot air would be to turn off your unit, clean the condensation drain, and allow the coils to defrost before turning the system back on.
