What to do when your car’s air conditioning stops working

August 30th, 2024 by

the air conditioning knob in a car close up

Tips and tricks for staying cool 

It’s summer, and your car’s air conditioning just stopped working. You’re sweating profusely and wondering what to do. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Keep reading with Carl Black Hiram of Hiram, GA, to learn what to do when your car’s air conditioning stops working and view tips and tricks for staying cool. 


Check, refill, or change your vehicle’s coolant 

One of the most common reasons why car air conditioning stops working is because the coolant is low. Coolant is a vital component of your car’s air conditioning system. It helps to circulate the refrigerant, which keeps your car cool. 

If your coolant is low, you can simply refill it. However, if it’s old or contaminated, you’ll need to change it. You can usually find coolant at your local auto parts store. 


How to recharge a car’s air-conditioning system


Other ways to keep your car cool 

If your car’s air conditioning is still not working, there are a few other things you can do to keep cool. 

  • Park in the shade. The shade will help to keep your car from getting too hot. 
  • Use window sunshades. Window sunshades will help to block the sun’s rays from coming into your car. 
  • Open the windows and let the breeze in. Windows are a great way to cool down your car on a nice day. 
  • Get a portable fan. A portable fan can help to circulate the air in your vehicle and make it feel cooler. 

Maintenance by a dealership 

If your car’s air conditioning is still not working, it’s time to take it to a dealership for maintenance. A dealership will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. 


Schedule a service appointment online


Additional tips for staying cool in the summer 

Here are a few additional tips for keeping your car’s air conditioning in good working order: 

  • Have your air conditioning system serviced every two years. This schedule will help to prevent problems and keep your system running efficiently. 
  • Replace your cabin air filter regularly. A dirty cabin air filter can restrict airflow and make your air conditioning less effective. 
  • Don’t turn your air conditioning on full blast right away. Doing so can put a strain on your system and cause it to overheat. 
  • Avoid parking in direct sunlight. The shade will help to keep your car cooler and reduce the strain on your air conditioning system. 

How to protect your car from summer heat


a protective reflective blanket placed across the windshield of a blue car to absorb and reflect heat and sunlight

Posted in Service