Why is my Subaru air conditioning not working?
As a Subaru owner, few things are more frustrating than turning on your air conditioning on a hot day, only to find that it’s not working. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’ve seen this issue countless times. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your Subaru’s air conditioning might not be functioning properly and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Air Conditioning Failure in Subarus
There are several reasons why your Subaru’s air conditioning system might not be working. Here are the most common culprits:
- Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system. If there’s a leak or the refrigerant levels are too low, the system won’t be able to cool the air effectively.
- Faulty Compressor: The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the system. If it’s damaged or not functioning, your AC won’t work.
- Clogged or Dirty Condenser: The condenser helps cool the refrigerant. If it’s clogged with debris or dirt, it can’t do its job properly, leading to warm air blowing from your vents.
- Electrical Issues: Problems with wiring, fuses, or relays can prevent the AC system from functioning. A blown fuse or a faulty relay is a common issue.
- Broken Blower Motor: If the blower motor isn’t working, air won’t circulate through the vents, even if the AC system is otherwise functional.
How to Diagnose the Problem
Before heading to the repair shop, you can perform a few simple checks to narrow down the issue:
- Check the Refrigerant Levels: If you have access to a refrigerant gauge, you can check the pressure levels. Low pressure often indicates a leak.
- Inspect the Compressor: Listen for unusual noises when the AC is turned on. A clicking sound might indicate a problem with the compressor clutch.
- Examine the Condenser: Look for visible debris or damage to the condenser, which is usually located in front of the radiator.
- Test the Blower Motor: Turn on the fan without the AC. If no air comes out, the blower motor might be the issue.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some issues, like replacing a blown fuse, can be resolved at home, others require professional expertise. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or electrical problems, it’s best to bring your Subaru to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin's Autos. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix the problem efficiently, ensuring your AC is back to keeping you cool in no time.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To avoid future air conditioning issues, follow these maintenance tips:
- Run your AC regularly, even in winter, to keep the system lubricated.
- Schedule regular inspections to check refrigerant levels and system components.
- Keep the condenser clean by removing debris and dirt buildup.
- Replace the cabin air filter as recommended in your Subaru’s owner manual.
Conclusion
Air conditioning problems can be inconvenient, but they’re often fixable with the right approach. By understanding the common causes and performing basic diagnostics, you can identify the issue and decide whether it’s something you can handle or if it’s time to call in the professionals. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your Subaru maintenance and repair needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your AC system needs expert attention!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing to check when the AC stops working?
the thermostat
Check these issues when the unit won't kick on: Check the thermostat and adjust the settings if it isn't set to Cool and an appropriate temperature setting to call for cooling. Examine the house circuit breakers for the AC unit and reset any tripped breakers. Check the air filter and replace the filter if it's dirty.
What is the most common cause of car AC not working?
- Low Refrigerant Levels: - Cause: Refrigerant can leak over time due to wear and tear on hoses or seals.
- Faulty Compressor: - Cause: The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant.
- Electrical Issues:
- Clogged Condenser or Evaporator:
- Faulty Blower Motor:
- Thermostat Issues:
- Blocked Cabin Air Filter:
How do I know if my Subaru AC compressor is bad?
Common Signs of a Failing Subaru AC Air Compressor
- High Cabin Temperatures. One of the very first signs of a failing compressor is the failure of the air conditioner to blow cold air as it used to do.
- Loud Noise.
- Compressor Clutch Not Moving.
How much does it cost to fix AC in a car?
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. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common car AC repairs and their average cost.
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
How do I fix my car AC blowing out hot air?
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.
Why is my AC on but blowing hot air?
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.
Why is my Subaru AC blowing hot air?
Leaking Refrigerant: AC systems are sealed, but over time, they can develop leaks. Leaks can cause a gradual loss of refrigerant, which ultimately results in warmer air blowing from the vents.
How to make car AC cold again?
3 Ways to Make Your Car's Air Conditioner Colder
- Clean or Replace the Cabin Air Filter. Your car's cabin air filter is responsible for keeping dust, pollen, dirt, and other pollutants out of your AC and heating vents.
- Check the Refrigerant Level.
- Inspect the Compressor.
- Visit Carmedix for Professional Car AC Repair.
What to do if AC is not cooling in car?
How to Check Your Car AC
- Check to see if the cabin filter is clear; if not, replace it.
- Figure out the last time the condenser was replaced.
- When the AC is on, listen to hear the condenser hum as it spins.
- Make sure the condenser is free from leaves, bugs, or other debris.
- Check for leaks in the system.
