Q: White smoke coming from A/C coolant is low?

asked by on January 31, 2017

white smoke was coming from A/C today. Happened for maybe 30 sec 2 different times and then it stopped. Drove for about 45 min after that and it didn't happen again . Coolant is low. Not sure if there is a leak.

My car has 31105 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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If you are referring to "smoke" coming from the dash vents when the a/c system is running, that is simply water vapor. The refrigerant is contained in a sealed system, although not quite as well sealed as a home or office a/c system. Consequently, over a period of years, there will be some "seepage" or loss of refrigerant from most auto a/c systems. On a relatively new car such as yours, the only way there will be a meaningful loss of refrigerant is if there is a leak. If cooling efficiency seems low, that is if the air provided is not really cold, the best thing to do is request that the system be tested. If you desire a leak inspection and state of charge inspection, simply request an air conditioning system inspection and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

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