Automotive AC Service and Repair

Automotive AC systems work by using a refrigerant to absorb heat from the cabin of the vehicle and release it outside. The refrigerant is a chemical compound that can change from a liquid to a gas and back again, which allows it to absorb and release heat as it cycles through the AC system.

There are several types of refrigerant used in automotive AC systems, including R-12, R-134a, and R-1234yf. R-12 is an older refrigerant that is no longer used due to its negative impact on the environment. R-134a is a more common refrigerant that has been used in automotive AC systems since the 1990s. R-1234yf is a newer refrigerant that is more environmentally friendly than R-134a and is gradually replacing it in newer vehicles.

Common failure items in automotive AC systems include the compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, and refrigerant leaks. The compressor is the component that pumps the refrigerant through the AC system, and it can fail due to wear and tear, electrical issues, or lack of lubrication. The condenser is responsible for releasing the heat that is absorbed by the refrigerant, and it can fail due to damage from road debris or corrosion. The evaporator is responsible for absorbing heat from the cabin of the vehicle, and it can fail due to leaks or blockages. The expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant through the AC system, and it can fail due to clogs or mechanical issues. Refrigerant leaks can occur due to damage to the AC system components or connections, and they can cause a loss of refrigerant that prevents the AC system from functioning properly.

When your vehicle is taken to Cardinal Plaza Shell for AC system issues, the technician will typically perform a series of tests to diagnose the problem. This may include checking the refrigerant levels, inspecting the AC system components for damage, and using specialized equipment to detect refrigerant leaks. Depending on the cause of the problem, the technician may need to replace one or more components, repair damaged wiring, or recharge the AC system with refrigerant. If the refrigerant is low or has leaked out of the system, the mechanic will need to locate and repair the source of the leak before recharging the system to prevent the problem from recurring.

All AC repairs are covered by Cardinal Plaza Shell's industry leading 3 year/1,000,000 Mile warranty!