5 Signs Your Car Air Conditioning Needs Servicing Before Summer
With warm days ahead, it’s crucial to have a conditioning system that works properly! As you might have experienced at some point, there’s nothing worse than being stuck in traffic on a sweltering day with nothing but warm air blowing in your face. That’s why we always recommend getting your car’s AC checked before the heatwave hits.
Here are five signs your car’s air conditioning might be crying out for a service – straight from the garage that’s been keeping Sussex drivers cool and comfortable for years.
- It’s Blowing Warm Air (When It Shouldn’t Be)
- Strange Noises When You Turn It On
- Unpleasant Smells Coming Through the Vents
- Weak Airflow
- It’s Been Over a Year Since Your Last Service
Let’s start with the obvious. If your air con is blowing warm or room-temperature air instead of a refreshing chill, something’s not right. This could be due to low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, or even a leak in the system. Either way, it’s not going to fix itself.
What We Recommend: Don’t wait until the hottest day of the year to find out your AC isn’t working. A quick check now can save you a sweaty summer later.
Your air conditioning system should hum quietly in the background; not rattle, squeal, or groan. Unusual noises could point to worn-out components, debris in the system, or a failing compressor.
What We Say: If your AC sounds like it’s struggling, it probably is. Bring it in and let us take a look before it turns into a bigger (and more expensive) problem.
If switching on your air con fills your car with a musty or mouldy smell, it’s likely due to bacteria or mould build-up in the system. This is not only unpleasant, but it can also be unhealthy, especially for those with allergies or asthma.
What We Recommend: A professional clean and service can eliminate odours and improve air quality. We offer full AC sanitisation services to keep your cabin fresh and breathable.
Even if the air is cold, if it’s barely trickling out of the vents, your system isn’t performing at its best. Blocked filters, a failing blower motor, or duct issues could be to blame.
What We Say: From filters clogged with leaves to motors on their last legs, we’ve seen it all. A service will pinpoint the issue and restore full airflow, just in time for summer road trips.
Like any part of your vehicle, your air conditioning system needs regular maintenance to keep it running efficiently. Most manufacturers recommend servicing your AC every 12–24 months, but many drivers forget – until it’s too late.
Reminder: If you can’t remember the last time your AC was serviced, it’s probably due. We’ll check refrigerant levels, inspect for leaks, clean the system, and make sure everything’s running smoothly.
What Happens If You Skip Your Air Con Service?
It’s easy to put off car maintenance, especially when everything seems to be working fine. But neglecting your air conditioning system can lead to more than just a sweaty drive!
Here’s what could go wrong if you don’t get it serviced in time:
Reduced Fuel Efficiency — A struggling AC system works harder to cool your car, which puts extra strain on the engine, burning more fuel.
Costlier Repairs Down the Line — What starts as a minor issue can quickly escalate into a major repair if left unchecked.
Poor Air Quality — Without regular cleaning, your AC system can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and allergens. This can lead to unpleasant smells and even respiratory issues for you and your passengers.
System Failure When You Need It Most — Murphy’s Law applies to car air conditioning too: if it’s going to fail, it’ll do so on the hottest day of the year. Regular servicing helps catch problems early, so you’re not left sweltering in summer traffic.
Let Us Help
We’re not just here to fix problems – we’re here to prevent them!
Our experienced technicians use the latest diagnostic tools and genuine parts to keep your car’s air conditioning in top shape. Whether you drive a compact city car or a family SUV, we treat every vehicle like it’s our own. Book an appointment at our Littlehampton garage online now