What to Expect With AC Maintenance And Repair Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
To get rid of foul odors in your car - try using dryer sheets in your vehicle's interior. Lay out a few sheets overnight on or near the source of the smell.
Signs You Need to Check Your AC
Don't wait for your AC to fail completely on a hot day. Your car will often give you subtle hints that the air conditioning system is struggling before it breaks down. Catching these early warning signs can save you from a sweaty commute and a more expensive car AC repair.
Watch out for these common indicators:
- Weak Airflow: Air is blowing, but it's not as strong as it used to be, potentially signaling a failing blower motor or a clog.
- Warm Air: The most obvious sign—your AC is blowing room-temperature or warm air instead of cold.
- Unusual Noises: You hear rattling, banging, or squealing sounds when you turn on the AC, which could indicate a failing compressor or debris in the system.
- Bad Smells: A musty or moldy odor coming from the vents often points to bacteria growth in the system or a dirty cabin air filter.
- Water Leaks: While some water under the car is normal condensation, water inside the cabin usually means a clogged drain line.
Why Car AC Recharge is Important
Over time, it is normal for your vehicle's AC system to lose small amounts of refrigerant. This refrigerant is the lifeblood of your cooling system; without enough of it, the compressor cannot cool the air effectively. A car AC recharge service restores this refrigerant to the manufacturer's specified levels, ensuring maximum cooling efficiency.
However, a recharge isn't just about topping off fluids. Our ASE-certified technicians use this service as an opportunity to perform a vacuum test on the system. This critical step removes moisture and air from the lines—both of which can cause internal corrosion and major damage—and helps us detect any significant leaks that require repair before adding new refrigerant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my car's AC serviced?
We recommend having your AC system inspected at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the summer heat hits. Regular maintenance helps catch small leaks and ensures your system is operating efficiently when you need it most.
Why is my car's AC blowing hot air?
The most common reason is a refrigerant leak. Other causes include a failing compressor, a broken condenser, or electrical issues. Our comprehensive diagnostic process will pinpoint the exact cause so we can provide the correct repair.
Is it safe to drive with a broken AC?
While driving without AC is generally safe for short distances, a broken compressor can sometimes seize and damage the drive belt, which powers other critical engine components. Additionally, a non-functioning defroster (which uses the AC) can be a major safety hazard during Grand Rapids winters or rainy days.
Can I recharge my AC system myself?
While DIY kits exist, we strongly advise against them. Modern AC systems require precise amounts of refrigerant. Overcharging can damage the compressor, and DIY kits often contain sealants that can clog your system and make professional repairs more difficult and expensive later.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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Q. "Why won't my A/C blow cold air?"If you notice any fluid under your car it may be due to a leak within your A/C system. However, issues can range from the fan not working properly to needing a recharge. Click here to find out all the potential reasons your vehicle's A/C is not working properly.
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Q. "Can I Recharge A Failing AC Myself?"It is possible if you have the proper knowledge and equipment, however, you may want to turn to a professional to avoid damage to your system. Click here to learn more about the dangers of at-home vehicle A/C recharges.
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Q. "How Does Outside Heat Affect My AC?"The hotter it is outside, the harder the air conditioning in your vehicle has to work. Rising outside temperatures put extra strain on your entire vehicle and its cooling system, from the battery and belts to hoses and fluids, requiring each part to work overtime to keep your vehicle cool. The result of extreme spikes in temperatures may even require you to replace your air filter sooner, along with other various components that ensure your car’s cabin remains comfortable. Click here to learn more about what you can do to protect your car's A/C in the heat.
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Q. "Warning signs my AC needs service?"Warning signs your AC needs maintenance includes a foul odor, noticeable airflow change, change in cooling, and loud noises when AC is on. Click here to learn more about Common Air Conditioning Problems & Solutions.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"I became a customer a few months ago shortly after purchasing my Van. It is great to have found an auto service that i can trust. Parts that i thought needed to be replaced were still good. Thank you for the convenient shuttle service too"
- JK