Driving while you’re feeling warm and sweaty can be uncomfortable. Luckily, your car A/C unit is there to keep you cool, especially in the hot summer months. However, like many other vehicle components, your A/C can malfunction.
If your car A/C only works when driving, and you’re wondering what the problem could be, you’re reading the right article.
Why Does My A/C Only Work When I’m Driving?
If your vehicle’s A/C only works when your car is moving, you might be dealing with a bad A/C condenser fan, a clogged condenser, or low refrigerant levels.
Bad A/C Condenser Fan
Located in front or behind the condenser unit, the A/C condenser fan delivers air to the condenser coils to convert hot refrigerant gas to cool liquid. The condenser fan automatically turns on once the engine reaches a certain level or when the A/C system triggers it to turn on.
The condenser fan automatically turns on once the engine reaches a certain level or when the A/C system triggers it to turn on.
–Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician
If the condenser fan is faulty, then how can the A/C still function when the vehicle is in motion? It happens because the air passes through the condenser when the vehicle is accelerating.
So even without the fan, the air still flows through the condenser coils. That explains why the A/C vents don’t release cool air when the vehicle is stationary.
Clogged Condenser
Automotive A/C systems are closed and sealed to keep external debris from getting in. However, debris from internal parts like the compressor can still block the condenser.
When worn-out parts break down, they accumulate and produce a sticky residue that can disrupt the flow of refrigerant in the system.
Once your condenser or compressor is clogged, the air coming out of your vents won’t be as cool as it’s supposed to be. This issue can also cause short cycling, resulting in irregularities in the A/C system’s operation.
Low Refrigerant Levels
The A/C refrigerant or Freon transfers the heat in the vehicle to the condenser in the front of the vehicle. The condenser reduces the Freon’s temperature, and once the cycle is complete, the vents blow cold air.
What happens when your refrigerant level is low? When your car has insufficient refrigerant because of leaks or other issues, the compressor will have a hard time pumping refrigerant into the system when the vehicle is not moving. Transferring refrigerant becomes easier for the compressor when the vehicle speeds up.
How Does a Car’s A/C System Work?
To have a full grasp of the problem and its causes, let’s examine how A/C systems work.
The A/C compressor compresses hot gas and turns it into a liquid state. The high-pressure liquid refrigerant is then transported to the condenser, where it cools down before moving to the evaporator core. It passes through different tubes, and the cycle ends with the A/C unit blowing cold air into the car cabin.
If you want to learn more about car A/C systems and their different parts, you can read this comprehensive guide.
Where to Get Your A/C Repaired
If you’re not an experienced DIYer, we recommend taking your ride to an auto repair shop for proper diagnosis and repair.
Look for ASE-certified repair shops to make sure your ride is in good hands. The mechanics in these shops can help you solve whatever issue you might have with your A/C system.
How Much Does A/C Repair Cost?
The cost of A/C repair can vary depending on what’s causing the issue. On average, you’ll most likely spend around $400 to $500, especially if the repair requires you to replace certain parts. You also have to consider the labor rates in your area.
Car A/C Maintenance Tips
To avoid shelling out money for costly repairs, here are some tips to help you take good care of your car’s A/C system.
Change Your Air Filter
Debris and dust can clog air filters, reducing air flow and the coolness of the air coming out of your A/C. The cabin filter inside your vehicle can also get clogged. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended schedule for filter replacement or cleaning to avoid issues down the road.
Have Your A/C Checked Regularly
Even if your A/C is functioning well, it’s recommended to have mechanics check it every year. It will help you ensure that critical A/C parts like the compressor and condenser are working.
Keep Your Car Clean
Dirt and bacteria in the air can cause molds and mildew to form in your A/C vent. To maintain your cabin air quality, wipe off moisture, clean your seats, and keep your cabin smelling fresh.
Read Your Owner’s Manual
It’s never a bad idea to equip yourself with knowledge about the specifications of the different systems inside your vehicle—including your A/C system. It will help you spot and prevent potential problems.
Get Replacement A/C System Parts Without Leaving Your Home
If your A/C stops working every time your car stops, it can be a real annoyance. Imagine having to wait at a long stoplight under the hot summer sun with no air conditioning. That’s why it’s best to diagnose the problem as soon as possible, whether on your own or by asking a trusted mechanic. The great thing is that once you know what’s causing the issue, buying replacement parts is easy with CarParts.com.
CarParts.com ensures the fit of whatever A/C parts you buy with our built-in vehicle selector. This coupled with our 60-day return policy allows you to buy online with confidence. We even have a lifetime replacement guarantee in place to show you can rely on us for quality products. If you have any questions about these policies, feel free to reach out to our friendly and helpful customer service team.
Order your new A/C condenser and other A/C system parts at CarParts.com today.
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