Broken Blower Resistor

Can the AC ever be too cold? Sure. If you can’t turn it down, then the AC speed setting is not working. This means the fan switch is probably at fault. This happens because the blower resistor has failed. When that happens, the system may bypass the resistor and allow the fan to blow. Often, it is the highest fan speed.

Car AC Repair Cost: Low To Moderate

Blower resistor needs to be replaced. Depending on the location, this can be a simple repair. If the resistor’s location is difficult to reach, it will increase.

At Lexus Earnhardt, we will make sure that nothing else is wrong with your AC system before doing this repair.

Dead Fuse

A repair shop will test the resistor, fan switch and connections to the motor to make sure nothing else is wrong before they start replacing parts. If none of the fan speeds work, then checking the fuse or fuses for the heating, vent and air-conditioning systems is a logical first step.

Car AC Repair Cost: Low

If the only problem is the fuse, that’s great news. It is the least expensive repair on the list.

At Lexus Earnhardt, we can include AC maintenance that’s sure to keep your system working well during our hottest summer months.

Air Cabin Filter

If you are noticing stale air, the filter is probably to blame.

Cost For Filter Replacement: Low

A clogged filter reduces air flow and may encourage an odor.

Lack of Refrigerant

Your fan is working,but the air is always hot. This may be the result of a lack of refrigerant. While some drive-through oil change places advertise a refill, keep in mind that you may have a leak. Don’t waste money. Get your car checked for a leak before you get a recharge.

Tip: Refrigerant doesn’t burn up like oil or gas. Usually, the problem is a leak.

Cost For Refrigerant Refill: Low

If there isn’t a leak, you can expect a very affordable price.

Cost For Leaks: Moderate To High

The mechanic will need to evaluate the pipes, hoses, compressor, condenser and evaporator.

The cost of parts and labor will affect the final price. Your Earnhardt mechanic will discuss these costs before performing the work.

Broken Fan

If you can feel cold, but the fan isn’t pushing out air, that’s probably a broken fan.

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate

If no other problem is detected, replacing the fan is not an expensive repair.

Blend Door Failure

Sometimes the door within the system gets stuck. This prevents the cold air from cooling the air that reaches the cabin.

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate

The main cost involved with this repair is the length of time it may take to repair.

Evaporator Failure

If the evaporator isn’t working or is leaking, this can be a major repair.

AC Car Repair COst: High

The cost of repair will be tied to where the evaporator is located. If it is easy to reach, the labor costs will be lower. If it is behind the dashboard, removing the dash is extremely time-consuming, adding to the cost of the labor.

Mold or Mildew Detected

If an evaporator drain is blocked, water may sit inside the case. This leads to moldy coils, an unhealthy problem.

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate

Assuming the evaporator doesn’t have to be replaced and is easy to access, the cost can be quite affordable. It’s definitely important to protect passengers from unhealthy air. Furthermore, action now may prevent further damage within the system.

Compressor Failure

When the fan is blowing hot, there are three possible problems with the compressor:

• Total failure (replacement needed)
• Electrical Switch failure
• Broken or slipping accessory belt

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate to High

The exact cause of the problem will dictate the cost of parts and labor. Your mechanic should talk to you about the pros and cons of repair vs replacement.

Computer Failure

Your car HVAC has computer sensors to regulate air flow.

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate

If the problem is fixed quickly, the costs should be low to moderate.

Electrical Failure

Your car HVAC runs on electricity. If it’s a short, your mechanic will have to determine why it isn’t getting power and whether the problem goes deeper.

AC Car Repair Cost: Moderate to High

Electrical problems come in all sizes. The cost will go up if the cost of parts or the length of labor goes up considerably.