mobile vehicle air conditioning servicing, diagnostics and repairs
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my vehicle's Air Conditioning system serviced?
Your vehicle's Air Conditioning system should be serviced every 2 years.
Why do I get a pungent smell inside my vehicle when the heater fan is switched on?
This is due to a build-up of bacteria, mould and fungi on the moisture laden Air Conditioning evaporator. The Evaporator is mounted behind the Dashboard, and it can also become contaminated with old skin cells and other airborne microscopic particles. This bacteria is then released into the vehicle cabin when the blower fan is switched on. This can cause sore throats, headaches, coughs, allergies and sickness etc. A specialist Anti-Bacterial / odour treatment is required to cure this.
Why should I have my vehicle's Air Conditioning system serviced?
All vehicle Air Conditioning systems lose refrigerant over time, usually between 10 to 20 percent per year. The Air Conditioning compressor is lubricated by a special type of oil. This oil mixes with, and is carried around the system by, the refrigerant. If the refrigerant charge is low there may be insufficient oil in the system, which can lead to internal system damage and some costly repairs. It should also be serviced regularly to remove the contaminants that are produced as a by-product of the Air Conditioning process, such as moisture, acids and debris.
I have seen vehicle Air Conditioning "Top up" cans online and in a well known motorists store, should I use one?
I do not recommend the use of these cans for the following reasons:
1) You could potentially injure yourself. 2) No old gas, moisture or debris is removed before putting the new refrigerant in, which can lead to problems in the future. 3) It is impossible to know how much gas is currently in the system or how much to add. 4) They are not much (if any) cheaper than having the system properly serviced by a professional.
Why does my vehicle's Air Conditioning system lose gas over time?
Your vehicle's Air Conditioning system is likely to lose between 10 and 20 percent of its refrigerant charge per year. This is because some of the systems pipes and components are very slightly porous, as well as the various multiple system joints leaking, as a result of the engine movement and the vehicle's body vibrations when it is driven.
What happens if my vehicle Air Conditioning system is found to have a significant leak, during a service or inspection?
Due to environmental concerns and the Governments 2009 F-gas regulations, it is illegal to put any gas into a vehicle with a known leak. Any leaks will need to be fixed before
the system can be serviced. See Leak testing.
Should I run my vehicle's Air Conditioning system during the winter?
Yes. Besides cooling your vehicle in the warmer months, the Air Conditioning should be run during the winter months too. This is because the Air Conditioning act as a dehumidifier, which will keep the interior of the vehicle dry. With less moisture in the vehicle, it will vastly reduce the amount of misting and ice forming on the inside of the glass on cold mornings. Also, using the Air Conditioning all year round will help keep the system seals lubricated and in good condition, which will minimise the amount of refrigerant leakage.
How long does it take to service my vehicle's Air conditioning system?
It takes between 1 and 1 ½ hours to complete the Air Conditioning service correctly.
Will you fit new or used parts sourced and supplied by the customer?
No. Vehicools will only fit parts sourced and supplied through our approved suppliers. This is to ensure the quality of the parts are up to our very high standards and to be able to deal with any possible fitment or parts warranty issues directly.
How does a vehicle Air Conditioning system work?
See the separate "Air Conditioning explained" page.