Q: AC not working.

asked by on January 08, 2016

The AC is not working. The fan does not blow cold air.

AC is not working Inspection $111.46 - $131.46 Get a Quote

An A/C system can be divided into 3 different sub systems. These sub systems work for the most part independent from each other. The heater part of it works off of water from your engine. The refrigerant part is what makes the air cold, it is a sealed system that works similar to you home refrigerator. The last sub system is the duct and fan. This is what directs the air to the vent/floor/defroster, and actually blows the air. If the refrigerant system is low, a pressure sensor will detect this and not allow the system to come on. A technician will have the proper equipment to recharge your system and find the leak. Usually electronic leak detection equipment or ultraviolet dyes are used for this. Another common issue is actuator failure. Actuators are part of the duct system. They direct air from to the proper areas for cooling or heating. If the door that directs the hot/cold air is stuck half way or on the hot side because of actuator failure, it will blow warm/hot even if the refrigerant side is doing its job. Actuators can be difficult to get to as they are behind the dashboard usually. There are also several of them so seeking help from a technician is advised.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

When I try to take my lug nuts off my aftermarket rims, i end up scraping the rims,what size lug do i need so i wont do this again
There are many possible sizes of sockets depending on the rim design and types of lug nuts used. Most aftermarket rims will use the same size lug nuts as original but require a thin wall type socket. Take the vehicle...
All lights are working except my tail lights. What's the problem?
The front and rear parking lights are on the same circuit, so first, check to see if the front parking lights are working. If the parking lights are not working with the headlight switch in the on position, then locate...
How to use Napa 85-200 12V. 1 Amp. This battery charger is slow.
Hi there. When you get a Napa 85-200 12 volt 1 amp battery charger, first you will need to check the battery for the water level. This is done by removing the caps to the battery. (Warning: Do not remove...
My ignition is messed up
You will need to replace the ignition key cylinder if that is all that is damaged. Once the damaged parts are installed then you can then reprogram your new keys by using one of the original keys held up to...
Can't find input speed sensor for 2009 Grand Cherokee. Code p2767.
The input sensors are part of the transmission electrohydraulic control unit mounted on the right side of the transmission.
Starting to hear a faint grinding noise from rear while car is in motion could it be the drum brakes ?
Hi Kenney. Thanks for writing in to YourMechanic.com tonight. Usually the type of noise you are describing is caused by wheel bearings that are wearing out. The rear brakes are hardly used on your Corolla, but it is possible that...
Car starting issues
There are a number of things that may contribute to hard starting. Things like low fuel pressure, fouled spark plugs, contaminated fuel, a clogged fuel filter or a bad fuel pump are some of the things related to fueling issues...
Steering wheel vibration and shaking
You probably should have changed the struts in pair at least because now you have an original strut on one side and a replacement strut on the other. The two might be slightly different in construction even if they seem...
Hard shifting from park to drive.
There are a number of things that may cause this such as low or dirty transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service), a bad shift interlock, or in some cases, the weight of the vehicle putting additional strain on the transmission parking pawl. The...

Related articles

What Components of the Heating and AC System Are Most Likely to Fail?
The The average automotive heating and cooling system (HVAC) is actually very complex, and they’re not connected to one another outside the cabin. Yes, your HVAC controls allow you to switch from warm air to cold, adjust the fan speed...
How a Car's Heating System Works
The The sun sets, and the air has a chill. You pause to flip your jacket collar up, and you walk briskly to your car door and slide into the driver's seat. Once you start your car, it’s only moments...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for College Students
You’ve You’ve done it – high school is officially behind you. Now it’s time to head off to a brand new world. College is that and more and you may need a car during your pursuit of a higher education....