Why It’s So Important to Maintain Your Car’s Air Conditioning

If there’s one thing that everyone can agree on, it’s that driving around in a hot, stuffy car is no fun. Having a high-performing air conditioning system in your car is not only pivotal in ensuring its comfort, but it plays an important role in its safety and functionality too.

In even the most high-end of cars, the AC can start to act up over time. Whether it’s making strange noises, blowing hot air or releasing a bad smell, these are all the telltale signs that it needs to be inspected by a trusted mechanic.

Below, we’ll go over some of the reasons why it’s so important to stay on top of your car’s AC system, and what might happen if you fail to do so.

To maintain its value

While car air conditioners used to be considered a luxury, they’re now the norm, and you’ll struggle to resell your car if it’s lacking a properly functioning AC unit. Being able to demonstrate that your AC has been routinely checked and maintained will go a long way, and give any potential buyers peace of mind that they won’t be stuck with the cost of repairing it in a few months’ time thanks to your negligence.

Staying on top of this will also make it much easier to sell your car quickly and easily when the time comes, helping you avoid last-minute and expensive repairs or replacements.

Defrost your windshield

We’ve all gotten into our car on a cold winter morning and had our windshield covered in frost. The AC unit actually plays a pivotal role in the defrosting process, pulling humidity out of the air and helping defog and defrost your windshield and windows.

So if you notice that your windshield is taking longer to defrost than usual, it might be time to take your car in to have its AC checked for any damage.

Keeps the air safe and healthy

Whenever you get a maintenance check for your car, your mechanic will have a look at your cabin air filter and see if it needs replacing. Air filters are responsible for trapping bacteria, dust and exhaust fumes before they get to your dashboard vents and are released into the air inside your vehicle.

If your filter is broken, clogged or dirty, it won’t be able to perform its job properly and these contaminants will be released into your car. If you notice any bad smells coming from your vents, take your car to a mechanic immediately.

Reduce risk of compression failure

The compressor is the key element of any car’s AC system, and also the most expensive part to repair or replace. By having your car regularly maintained, the appropriate refrigerant and lubricant levels will be maintained, which lowers the compressors’ risk of failure.

Regular maintenance will also ensure that common problems such as blockages or leaks will be found and fixed in their early stages, making them easier and cheaper to repair.