3 Signs Your Car's A/C Needs Help
June 19, 2020
We live in the south, and that means hot summers–as in, takes-your-breath-away hot. That’s just how it is, and with that hot weather headed our way, we want to make sure your car’s A/C is in tip-top condition.
Because, think about it, nothing is worse than getting into a car on a hot summer’s day (you know, one of those days where you can actually see the heat because it’s just that hot), and your A/C takes seemingly ages to finally cool the car down. We’ve all been there, and if you have leather seats in your car, things can become quite painful. We get it.
Is this happening to you? Here are 3 tell-tale signs that your car A/C might need to be serviced:
1. You Notice A Temperature Difference
Is your car taking longer than it used to, to cool the air? We know you don’t want to sit there baking in the heat while you car takes forever to cool down. You want to get in the car, turn on the A/C and be comfortable while you’re driving. If your air conditioning seems to be taking a little bit longer to run at full capacity, it may be time to have it serviced here at Team Ryan Automotive.
Here’s a couple signs that your A/C is just not in the same shape it once was:
1. The air is not getting as cold as it used to in its glory days.
2. The air pressure is not changing, no matter how high it’s turned up.
If either of these two things are happening to you, we’ve got some good news. We can help restore your air conditioning back to the glory days of cold drives in rudely hot weather.
The problem could be as simple as debris getting trapped in your system, which has blocked the evaporator or condenser. Or there could also be a problem with your compressor, but never fear because our mechanics at Team Ryan Automotive can solve any of these issues.
2. Your Car Makes Unusual Noises When Your Turn The A/C On
Just as a rule of thumb, if your car makes any sort of unusual noises, it would probably be best to get it checked out, just to be on the safe side.
With the A/C, those unusual noises could indicate a problem with your system. You’ll know the source of the sound is coming from the air conditioning if you can no longer hear it when the A/C is turned off. This, more likely than not, is an issue with your compressor.
The compressor works very hard in the summer months to help regulate the temperature in your car, so the likelihood of it being worn out is fairly high. If the sound resembles a grind or squeal, your compressor is at its last leg of life.
If that’s the case, you’ll need a trustworthy auto shop like Team Ryan Automotive to restore delicious cool comfort in your car. Because a summer without air conditioning in your car is not ideal, and we want to ensure you’re comfortable even in the midst of the most intense heat waves.
3. Something Is Leaking
Much like your engine being dependent on oil, your air conditioning system is dependent on two liquids: refrigerant and compressor oil. Because of that, a leak could happen just about anywhere.
If there is a leak, not only can it hurt your vehicle’s ability to run cold air, it could also damage other parts of the car.
If you notice a leak, unusual sounds, or a temperature difference, be sure to call us here at Team Ryan Automotive at (678) 884-4863 today or click here to make an appointment.
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
