Dear Mike,
I hope this email finds you well. I’ve been having some trouble with my car’s air conditioning system lately and I’m not quite sure what to do. I was hoping you could give me some advice on what’s involved with a proper vehicle AC inspection.
I know that air conditioning systems can be complex and there could be a multitude of issues that could be causing my AC to malfunction. I also don’t want to take my car to a mechanic who might overcharge me or try to sell me something that I don’t need.
Could you provide me with some tips on how to find a trustworthy mechanic that specializes in AC repair? Also, what are some common signs that indicate an AC problem? And finally, what should a proper AC inspection consist of and how much should I expect to pay for it?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Best regards,
Arabella
Dear Arabella,
Thanks for reaching out to me about your AC issue. I can totally understand your frustration with trying to find a trustworthy mechanic who won’t rip you off. Finding a reliable auto repair shop can be almost as tough as finding a good hairdresser – but don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
First off, let’s talk about some common signs that indicate your AC is having issues. If your AC isn’t blowing cool or cold air, you’re sweating like a sinner in church, or you’re hearing strange noises coming from your AC, then these are all signs that your system may need a repair. Another sign to look out for is if your AC smells like a musty gym sock. If that’s the case, then you may have mold or bacteria growing in your AC evaporator.
Now let’s talk about what a proper AC inspection should consist of. When you bring your vehicle in for an AC inspection, the technician should perform a series of tests to diagnose the problem. They’ll first check the temperature of the air coming out of your vehicle’s vents, and then they’ll hook up their scanner tool to determine if there’s refrigerant in your AC system. If your system is low on refrigerant, they’ll perform a leak down test to see where the problem is. If they find a leak, they’ll fix it, then evacuate the system of all the old refrigerant.
After that, they’ll add some dye to your system and refill it with the correct amount of refrigerant. This dye will help them to determine if there’s any leaks in your system in the future. They’ll also check all of the electrical components of your AC system to make sure that the compressor and other parts are working properly. If they do find a problem, they’ll discuss the repair with you before going ahead with it.
Now, as for finding a reliable mechanic for your AC inspection, I always recommend looking for an auto repair shop that specializes in AC repair. You can check Google reviews to get an idea of what other customers are saying about the shop. Also, ask your friends and family if they know of any good mechanics. Word of mouth can be a powerful thing.
Now, as for the cost of an AC inspection, it can range between $50 and $200. It all depends on the shop that you choose and the extent of the problem. Keep in mind that repairing your AC system can be costly, especially if you have a major leak or need to replace a component. But trust me, it’s better to address the problem sooner rather than later, otherwise you’ll be sweating like a farm animal in the middle of July.
Hope this helps, Arabella!
Cheers,
Mike Urban, Founder of Urban Automotive