Why do I need my air conditioning serviced?
Not only does air conditioning help to keep you cool in your vehicle during the summer months, but working to its full potential actually helps to improve the air quality inside your vehicle by filtering out pollutants, airborne bacteria and pollen. In order for the technology inside air conditioning systems to work as effectively as possible, it’s essential that the air conditioning units must be checked, drained, cleaned, recharged and lubricated on a regular basis.
Air conditioning systems which are fully recharged will not have to work as hard to function, which will put less strain on the car engine and will help to preserve your fuel. Having the filters cleaned and disinfected will help to clear bacteria and unpleasant odours from the vents which become prominent when the air-con is used.
How often do I need to service my car’s air conditioning?
Automotive brands including Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen recommend recharging/re-gassing your vehicle’s air-con system every 2 years. This is because over time, the refrigerant gas in your car’s air conditioning system diminishes, especially when used regularly, meaning your air conditioning won’t work as effectively.
Also, if you’re struggling with persistent bad odours coming from your car’s air conditioning, then this may be a sign it’s time to get it de-bugged. This essentially means decontaminating the whole system. Air conditioning systems in cars can become a breeding ground for bacteria and as a result this leads to those bad odours.
What is included in my air conditioning check?
Our professional team will perform an initial check which includes the following:
If there are any issues with your air conditioning, we will discuss the recommended repairs needed before going ahead with them. After which we will work alongside your car manufacturers guidelines to replace and recharge lubricant and refrigerant levels within the system.
What happens during the air conditioning recharge process?
Recharging a vehicle’s air conditioning involves clearing out any old refrigerant, gas and oil from the system and replacing it with fresh lubricant. The process is quick, usually taking around 45 minutes to re-gas the system if it is fault free, and will have your air-con system operating at its best in no time – you will be surprised at the difference it makes. If there is a fault such as a leak or electrical fault, this may take longer.
At Specialist Vehicles, we are able to provide the more common refrigerant, r134a, which is used in 90% of cars today to recharge your car’s air conditioning system. Alternatively, we also provide R1234yf car air conditioning recharge, which is standard for newer vehicles and often not available at many other air-con specialists.
How to book
If you are in or around the Devon, Cornwall or Plymouth area then you can pop down to our service centre which is open 6 days a week and talk to one of our friendly experts about the air conditioning services we offer.
Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01752 343777 or email us at sales@specialistvehicles.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.