Why won’t my AC turn on in my car?

air conditioning level

Can a blown fuse cause car AC not to work?

With so many moving parts in a car, it is small wonder that it is also built to keep you comfortable during times you drive. So when your air conditioner is not operating correctly, it could be any number of problems affecting it and keeping it from keeping the interior of the vehicle from a climate controlled state. Fortunately, the mechanics at J1 Auto Repair in Lombard, IL understand the possibilities and are here to help you when your car undergoes such an issue. 

One reason why the issue can occur is from a fuse blowing and needing a replacement. Relatively speaking, this is a minor detail that can be checked on and fixed if needed. If you do not know where the fuse box is in your car, the user manual has that specific information. With each manufacturer, the box is in a different location of the car with some being in the glove box, others on the driver’s side above the peddles, under the hood, and in other locations as well. The two absolute items that will tell you for sure is the user manual and a fuse tester, which can be found at your tool and auto parts store. Depending on which one you own or get, there would be an indication when you find the correct fuse. Replacing a fuse is also a simple matter, though you must pay special attention to the one you get if you choose to get your own to replace the blown one. Fuses come in all shapes and sizes, with each fitting into a specific slot and not in another. We recommend you choose us to fix the problem by calling 630-932-4427 today and getting your car to our shop to repair your air conditioning.

How can I test my car AC compressor?

Another reason your air conditioner may not be functioning at any capacity is a problem with the ac compressor that converts with the refrigerant that keeps your car cool. The process involves condensing refrigerate and then circulate it appropriately while helping in the process of removing heat. While you can find the compressor by following the drive belt under the hood to the compressor’s clutch pull, it is heavily recommended that you take it to a professional mechanic. The reason being is that even in a refrigerant refill, you will have to undergo the process while the vehicle is on. Furthermore, more equipment and care is required to undergo the process of fixing the ac compressor even with a refrigerant refill. 

What are the symptoms of a bad AC compressor?

You may be wondering at this point how to at least tell how to that the problem regarding your air conditioning is because of your ac compressor. There are some signs that can lead one to credibly suspect the air compressor may be having issues and require some adjustments or repairs. These signs would include: 

  • Grinding, squealing, or rattling noises when air conditioning is activated
  • Unreliable or lack of cold air blowing into the car interior
  • Ineffective controls to the compressor in the cab and under the hood
  • Repetitive clicking noise at the clutch before the other mentioned noises

Unfortunately, while these symptoms can point to the compressor being the problem, the distinct prognosis of the air compressor’s dilemma is another endeavor entirely. However, a general agreement among mechanics is that when the AC compressor does not turn on entirely then the issue can most likely point to the AC relay. The specific job of an AC relay is to send the electrical current from the directives of you pressing the AC controls and convert them into the air compressor or the clutch specifically. While it will be highly uncomfortable, having these problems does not make the car inoperable, just in some cases unreasonable to drive especially in a hot environment.

air conditioner

Can low oil cause AC to stop working?

Your car’s ability to use oil and it being low on the fuel does not have any particular effect on the air conditioning. In that line of thinking, if your car is insufficiently oiled, the entire system will suffer and not just a singular part like the AC unit. However, like other machines, the AC compressor and the air conditioner in general has many parts that need to be lubricated. Those without training will not necessarily recognize how to undergo this process even with the instructions due to the need of in-depth parts being cared for. The best way to handle that problem is therefor to take it to a mechanic so that they can perform the proper maintenance on your vehicle and it’s air conditioning. Those of us at J1 Auto Repair in Lombard, IL would be more than happy to take care of that with our multiple specialized products. Call 630-932-4427 today to see about getting an appointment and we’d be happy to help in the future.