Why is my Chevy Trax blowing hot air?
In most cases, a Chevy Trax blowing hot air means the A/C isn’t cooling the cabin. Common culprits include a low refrigerant charge, a failing compressor, or a heater/blend door issue.
The Trax uses a traditional HVAC system that mixes air from the heater core and the evaporator to create the desired cabin temperature. When hot air comes out instead of cold, it can indicate problems in the cooling loop, the heating path, or the controls that regulate them. Diagnosing the exact cause often starts with simple checks and can escalate to professional service if the issue involves refrigerant leaks, electrical faults, or a faulty actuator.
Common causes
Below are the frequent reasons a Chevy Trax might blow hot air, spanning refrigerant problems, mechanical failures, and control issues.
- Low refrigerant charge due to leaks in the A/C system, leading to inadequate cooling
- Faulty A/C compressor or compressor clutch not engaging, so no cold air is produced
- Blender/temperature control door or its actuator stuck on hot, preventing cold air from reaching the cabin
- Heater core problems, such as blockage or internal leaks, causing persistent warm air
- Heater control valve or bypass valve issues (in vehicles that use a coolant valve to feed the heater core)
- Thermostat or engine cooling problems that keep coolant temperature high or affect heater core flow
- Electrical or control module problems in the HVAC system, including fuses, wiring, or sensors
Addressing these issues typically requires starting with a diagnostic by testing pressures, inspecting for leaks, and verifying proper operation of the blend doors and controls. If leaks are found or refrigerant is low, professional service is needed to repair and recharge the system.
How to diagnose
Use these steps to narrow down whether the problem lies with the A/C, the heating system, or the climate controls.
- Check the climate control settings: ensure the A/C is on, set to the coldest setting, and that air is being directed to the desired vents (dash, feet, defrost).
- Listen for the A/C compressor engaging: with the A/C on, you should hear the compressor clutch click in as the system begins to cool. If it doesn’t, the compressor or electrical signal may be the issue.
- Look for signs of refrigerant leaks: oily spots around the service ports or hoses can indicate a leak. A system that feels warm or only blows warm air often correlates with a low charge.
- Check engine temperature: if the engine is running hot or the cooling fans aren’t operating correctly, it can affect the heater core and overall cooling performance.
- Test the blend doors and actuators: if the door is stuck on hot, you may feel persistent warmth even with the A/C on. Inconsistent temperature changing with controls also points to a door/actuator issue.
- Inspect fuses and relays for the HVAC system: a blown fuse or faulty relay can disable cooling or fan operation.
Note: Some diagnostic steps, such as reading A/C pressures or locating small leaks, require specialized tools and knowledge. If you’re not comfortable, seek a professional diagnosis to avoid refrigerant exposure or potential system damage.
What to do next
If you determine or suspect the problem is not simply a setting issue, consider these next steps to address hot-air symptoms in a Chevrolet Trax.
- Have a certified technician check the A/C refrigerant level and pressure with a manifold gauge set. They’ll confirm whether a leak exists and whether the compressor is operating correctly.
- Inspect the A/C compressor clutch, belts, and electrical connections for wear or failure. Replace components as needed.
- Test the HVAC blend doors and actuators to ensure the correct mix of hot and cold air is being routed to the cabin. Replace a faulty actuator if required.
- Evaluate the heater core and coolant system: look for a clogged heater core or issues with coolant flow. In some cases, flushing or replacement is necessary.
- Check the radiator/condenser airflow: remove debris and ensure fans run when the A/C is on to support proper cooling of the condenser.
- Address engine cooling issues if present: fix thermostat, water pump, radiator, or cooling fan problems which can indirectly affect cabin comfort.
If the problem persists after these checks, booking a formal service appointment is advisable. Recharging refrigerant without fixing leaks will only provide a temporary cure and can be illegal to release into the atmosphere in some regions.
Notes specific to the Chevy Trax
The Trax’s HVAC system relies on a blend of automatic and manual controls that can be sensitive to door actuator wear and software calibrations. If you’ve recently serviced the vehicle or there are intermittent temperature swings, a software update or recalibration of the climate control module may help, in addition to physical inspection of the blend doors.
Summary
Hot air from a Chevy Trax’s HVAC system is usually a sign that the cooling path is not performing as it should—most often due to low refrigerant, a failed compressor, or a faulty heater/AC blend door. A structured diagnostic approach—checking controls, compressor engagement, refrigerant pressure, leaks, and the HVAC doors—helps pinpoint the root cause. Depending on the finding, you may fix minor issues yourself, but refrigerant leaks, compressor faults, or heater door actuators typically require professional service to restore proper cooling and cabin comfort.
Why is my Chevy Trax AC not cold?
If your 2017 Chevy Trax AC isn't cooling, start by checking refrigerant levels for leaks using a UV dye kit. Inspect the compressor clutch engagement; a faulty clutch prevents proper cooling. Also, examine the condenser and radiator for debris blocking airflow. Replace damaged hoses or seals to stop leaks.
What is the most common problem with Chevy Trax?
In fact, 30% of the complaints on file with NHTSA involve the engine, powertrain, or fuel system. The complaints range from fuel injector failure to a fire in the engine compartment. Turbocharger problems are also among the common Chevrolet Trax problems.
Why is my car all of a sudden blowing hot air?
The most common reason why your car AC is blowing hot air is that there is a leak in the refrigerant. When there is a leak in the system, this is the only time drivers will have to recharge the refrigerant since it is recycled over and over.
Why is my Chevy blowing hot air?
Refrigerant Leaks: While AC systems are sealed, they can develop leaks over time. Leaks can lead to a gradual loss of refrigerant, which ultimately results in the discharge of warm air from the vents.
