You demand a lot from your car. Not only do you expect it to start and run without problems, you want the heater to keep you warm when it is cold and the air conditioning to keep you cool when it is hot.
Maintaining Comfortable Temperatures Takes Work
Heat is generated during the engine's combustion process. It’s then absorbed by the coolant in your car's radiator and circulated through the heater core before returning to the radiator. A fan (blower) then circulates air over the heater core and into the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
Air conditioning comes from the car's elaborate air conditioning system. Instead of adding “cold” air to the car’s interior, it actually removes the heat from outside air, cleaning and dehumidifying and keeping it at the temperature you select. The “cooled” air is then sent to the car's interior in an "un-heated" condition.
A thorough inspection will include:
- Inspecting interior controls and blower
- Check radiator coolant level, hoses, pressure cap and thermostat
- Test the condition and tension of the A/C compressor belt
- Check for leaks or other damage
- Review component conditions for leaks or damage
System testing also includes:
- Cooling system pressure test
- Compare A/C pressure to manufacturer’s recommendations
- Test A/C system for refrigerant leaks
- Check interior vent air temperature