How Does A/C Repair Work?
A car's air conditioner works like any standard air conditioner but on a much smaller scale. It's important to note that a vehicle's A/C doesn't produce cold air; instead, it removes heat from the air entering its system. The refrigerant in your vehicle alternates between a gaseous and liquid state. When refrigerant in its cool liquid form is exposed to warm air in your vehicle's condenser, it evaporates into a gas and absorbs or removes heat from the surrounding environment. The heated refrigerant then moves to a separate part of the system, where the gas is compressed into liquid by the compressor. Before the refrigerant can cycle back through the system, any water that may have been created in the process needs to be removed. This is achieved by a component known as a receiver or dryer. Once the water is removed, the refrigerant can start the cycle all over again. Whether you are in Oakland, CA or Castro Valley, CA, you can bring your car to Costa Auto Care and Tire today for any A/C repairs.
How Do I Know If My Vehicle Needs a Heating and Air Conditioning Service?
Whether you drive a Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, or Toyota, there are universal indicators that there is a problem with your car's air conditioner. If you notice any of these indicators, it is time to come in for an air conditioning evac/recharge service. Here are some signs to watch out for:
The air isn't cooling - Most of the time, your air conditioner loses its cooling properties because there is a low level of refrigerant, your condenser is broken, or the compressor has a broken or damaged belt.
You hear strange noises when your air conditioner is on - Noise usually comes from a dying compressor, but some other common causes can be a cross-contaminated refrigerant or the use of the wrong lubricant.
It seems moist inside your vehicle - The common cause for moist air inside your car is usually moisture or debris trapped inside your air conditioning system.
The air from your air conditioner smells - If you haven't used your air conditioner in a while, bacteria and fungus can settle into the system, creating a foul smell.
Something is leaking from your air conditioner - Leaking refrigerant is dangerous, and this issue should be addressed as soon as possible.
Here are some tips to keep your car cool in hot weather in Oakland, CA, without turning your car’s air conditioner on:
- Use a sunshade or window visor.
- Park in a shady area.
- Purchase a solar-powered fan.
- Keep the windows slightly cracked.
- Throw blankets over your seats.
- Use a dash cover.
- Keep your precious possessions away from the sun.
- Cover your steering wheel with a towel.
- Park in a garage when possible.
Getting your air conditioning system repaired, especially in the hot Alameda summer months, is imperative. We at Costa Auto Care and Tire can help!
Your Local Reliable Auto Repair Shop for Air Conditioning Repair
We at Costa Auto Care and Tire in Oakland have been fixing cars since 1984. Our team of technicians has decades of combined experience, and each staff member is an expert in all things auto repair. Specializing in Automotive Repair and Diagnostics, we will do a comprehensive inspection of your car to determine if you need additional services, such as scheduled maintenance.
Reasons You Should Do Business With Us:
- Transparency
- Honesty
- Integrity
- We are Experts
- Years of Experience
If you are in the 94605 area or nearby, feel free to schedule an appointment with Costa Auto Care and Tire today! We serve residents of Oakland, CA, Castro Valley, CA, Piedmont, CA, Alameda, CA, San Leandro, CA, and beyond. Costa Auto Care and Tire - Our mission at Costa Auto Care and Tire is to provide a professional and friendly atmosphere in which customers may acquire the knowledge and needs of their vehicles. Come to us for auto air conditioning or car maintenance. You can give us a call at 510-686-6007 or schedule an appointment with us online.