When you climb into your car on a hot summer’s day, you immediately crank on that AC. Of course, you know it’s going to take a few minutes for the air to cool down, so you start down the road, eagerly anticipating the gradual drop in temperature from your air vents. But what if that drop doesn’t come? What might be causing your car to keep blowing hot air instead of cooling down? Keep reading to learn the most common causes of this problem.

Refrigerant Leak

The refrigerant is what helps to cool down the air as it passes through your car’s AC system. Unfortunately, a leak can occur anywhere in the refrigerant line. You might notice an oily substance on one of the lines, most commonly around the AC unit hose connections. That oil will indicate the location of the leak. If you’re handy with cars, you might be able to locate this leak yourself and seal it up with a specific kind of sealant made for air conditioning units, which you can find at most auto parts stores. However, if you struggle to find the leak or doubt your ability to seal it up properly, take it to a mechanic.

Blocked Condenser

After refrigerant has been compressed from cooling air for your AC system, it needs to be cooled back down too. The condenser is responsible for this job, using the airflow from the front of your car. However, that airflow can sometimes become blocked by leaves or other road debris, and your condenser won’t be able to cool the refrigerant back down. 

The condenser is located at the front of the car to use that airflow, so check the front of your vehicle to see any noticeable debris. Remove it from the grill and see if that solves your problem.

Faulty Compressor

The compressor is what keeps the air moving through your AC system at all times. If the compressor goes bad, refrigerant doesn’t circulate, and the air doesn’t get cooled. Compressors most often go bad after a prolonged period without use. So, if you’ve just turned on your AC for the first time since the weather warmed up, and it’s not working, the compressor is your most likely culprit.

If your car’s AC keeps blowing hot air, and you can’t seem to find and fix the problem yourself, look for professional Audi repair in Houston and have a professional diagnose and fix it for you.