AC Repair For Cars and Trucks | Lonnie Roberts Auto Service

Q: How often should Freon be changed?

Never, at least not in the way you think of your oil being changed. Your car's AC system is a sealed unit. No new Freon needs to be added unless there's a refrigerant leak. Over time as your vehicle ages small cracks may form in your AC system parts such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator, receiver-dryer, expansion tube and connecting hoses allowing Freon to escape. If this occurs, you need to replace the failing part and have your Freon recharged.

Q: How long should a Freon recharge last?

If your car's AC system was recently repaired and required a Freon recharge it should not need to be replaced again. Your AC system is a closed or sealed system that does not allow Freon to escape. Freon is not like gasoline; it does not get depleted. If Freon is escaping after your car's AC system has been repaired, then additional work may need to be done to find the leak.

Q: How many cans of Freon does a car take?

Don't guesstimate your car's refrigerant needs! Most use 28-32 ounces (2-3 12oz cans), but larger vehicles and rear A/C can be different. Check your manual for the exact amount to avoid overfilling.

Q: Can I leave my car running when adding Freon?

It is advised to have your engine running while recharging your car's A/C system. This is essential as the A/C compressor, powered by the engine, must be active to facilitate proper refrigerant circulation and ensure an effective recharge.

Q: Why is my car blowing hot air after adding Freon?

A refrigerant leak can lead to a loss of pressure in the AC system, resulting in a failure to produce cold air. This is frequently the primary reason a recharge may prove ineffective. It is crucial to inspect the system for leaks and address any issues before proceeding with a recharge.

Restoring Comfort with Lonnie Roberts Auto Service in Columbia

If the heat is too much to handle inside your car, don't suffer through it. Visit us at Lonnie Roberts Auto Service in Columbia, and we'll quickly get your air conditioning running cool again. Contact us at 803-788-2142 or stop by our location at 638 N Brickyard Rd, Columbia, SC for expert service.

Five Indicators Your Car's AC Needs Attention

Your car's AC blows air only slightly cooler than the outside temperature.
Unpleasant mildew and mold odors emanate from your AC vents.
The AC functions only while the vehicle is in motion.
Even at the highest fan setting, there's weak airflow.
Water condenses or drips onto your foot while driving.

Act now to ensure your car's AC is in top shape! Visit Lonnie Roberts Auto Service for efficient air conditioning service and prevent costly future repairs. Often, the problem can be fixed by doing a quick coolant refresh - easily and affordably fixing a malfunctioning AC.

Ensuring Optimal Performance for Your Vehicle's Cooling System

Over time, wear and tear on your vehicle's air conditioning system can lead to issues like cracked hoses, clogs, or leaks. To ensure optimal cooling performance, let us maintain your car or truck at Lonnie Roberts Auto Service. Call 803-788-2142 today to find out how we can rejuvenate your AC system.

Common Automotive AC Repair Services

Recharging Your Car's AC
If your vehicle's AC begins to lose its cooling efficiency, consider a freon recharge. This quick and cost-effective solution restores cool air, providing relief from the heat. Be aware that if there's a freon leak, it could be due to a damaged hose or seal, which might require more extensive repairs.

Repair Your Car's AC Compressor
The AC compressor is central to cooling your vehicle, performing several critical functions: it pressurizes the refrigerant to cool the air, regulates the temperature output, detects temperature changes, and channels air to the AC condenser.

Repair Your Car's AC Condenser
Located at the front of your vehicle, near the radiator, the AC condenser is crucial for cooling the refrigerant after compression. This component helps maintain a comfortable cabin temperature by converting the refrigerant into a cooled liquid that moves to the receiver/dryer or accumulator.

Repair Your Car's AC Evaporator
Situated just behind the dashboard, the evaporator is key to your car's air conditioning system. It cools and dehumidifies the air before it flows through the cabin, ensuring a comfortable environment inside your vehicle during the warmer months.

Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
The Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube is essential for regulating your AC system's pressure and temperature, controlling the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. Proper balance prevents moisture build-up, crucial for maintaining your vehicle's AC efficiency.

Freon Recharging FAQs

How often should Freon be changed?

Freon in your car's AC system doesn't need regular replacement like engine oil because the system is sealed. However, over time, as your vehicle ages, small cracks might develop in components like the compressor, condenser, or hoses, leading to Freon leakage. In such cases, the damaged parts should be replaced, and the Freon should be recharged.

How long should a Freon recharge last?

A properly repaired and recharged car AC system shouldn't need new Freon unless there's a leak. Unlike fuel, Freon doesn't deplete with use but can escape through leaks. If you find the Freon level dropping after a repair, it's crucial to check for and repair any leaks.

How many cans of Freon does a car take?

The amount of Freon required varies by vehicle. Typically, a car needs between 28-32 ounces of Freon, which equates to about 2-3 standard 12oz cans. However, larger vehicles or those with rear AC systems may need more. Always refer to your vehicle's manual to ensure the correct amount and prevent overfilling.

Can I leave my car running when adding Freon?

Yes, your car's engine should be running when you recharge the AC system. The AC compressor operates by using the engine which circulates the refrigerant and is essential for a successful recharge.

Why is my car blowing hot air after adding Freon?

If your car is still blowing hot air after adding Freon, it likely indicates a leak which causes a drop in system pressure and inefficacy in cooling. Before adding more Freon, it's advisable to thoroughly check for leaks and repair any found to ensure the system can maintain proper pressure and function effectively.

Schedule your auto AC repair appointment with Lonnie Roberts Auto Service today! Our expert technicians are equipped to swiftly diagnose and resolve all your air conditioning issues.

To learn more about our AC repair services, call us at 803-788-2142 or request a quote by clicking below:

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